Getting regular physical activity is one of the best ways to protect your overall health. Going for daily walks around your neighborhood or training at Noble Clay Fitness can help keep you active, improve your mood and prevent health problems. Exercise is even associated with a reduced risk of hearing loss.
However, having hearing loss is associated with poorer physical function, which could lead to worsening health.
Hearing Loss Associated with Lower Physical Performance
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open looked at the connection between hearing loss and physical function among older adults in the United States. The study used existing data collected from 2,956 patients who were taking part in a different study examining atherosclerosis risk in various communities. Of all the participants studied:
- 33% had normal hearing
- 40% had mild hearing loss
- 23% had moderate hearing loss
- 4% had severe hearing loss
Participants with hearing loss scored lower on physical performance scores. Specifically, hearing loss was associated with:
- Overall poorer physical performance
- Faster decline in physical function
- Reduced walking endurance
Causes of Poor Physical Function Associated with Hearing Loss
While the researchers who conducted the study did not offer a definitive cause, they did speculate as to some possible reasons hearing loss is associated with poorer physical performance:
- Cardiovascular issues that can contribute to both poor physical performance and hearing loss (though they did try to adjust for that as part of the study.)
- Hearing loss can negatively affect balance making physical tasks like walking more difficult.
- Hearing loss can lead to isolation and depression, which can cause people to engage in less regular physical activity and diminish physical performance.
Treating Hearing Loss for a Healthier Life
Having diminished physical function doesn’t just affect your body. It affects your mental and emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Treating your hearing might help delay or prevent some of these negative effects.
People who use hearing aids to treat their hearing loss experience numerous benefits including:
- Decreased feelings of depression, anger and anxiety
- Improved cognitive health and lower risk of dementia
- Better balance
- Lower risk of injury due to falls
- Increased control over life events
- Better relationships and social interactions
If you are concerned about your hearing loss, take the first step towards better hearing health, and schedule an appointment with an audiologist. They can quickly and painlessly determine the extent of your hearing loss and help you find the best treatment for your individual needs and lifestyle.
For more information about hearing loss or to schedule an appointment, call the experts at Advanced Hearing today.