In 2018, a team from the University of Michigan studied a group of older adults
who reported they had severe hearing loss to see if hearing aid use impacted how
they use our health care system. Some in the group treated their hearing loss with
hearing aids, while others did not.
Knowing that hearing aids can be a significant investment, the team was curious to
find out if the cost of hearing aids was offset by fewer hospital visits or healthcare
expenses.
In addition to finding that those in the group who had hearing aids were less likely
to have gone to the hospital or emergency room the year prior to the survey, those
who had hearing aids were also “less likely to have chronic illnesses such as
diabetes and high blood pressure.”
The study didn’t dig into why illnesses like diabetes and high-blood pressure were
more reported in those who didn’t wear hearing aids but speculated that it’s likely
because hearing aids enable wearers to live more active and engaged lives, which
typically results in a healthier life, especially for seniors.
It’s just one more good reason – why treating hearing loss beats ignoring loss every
time.
Individuals who wear hearing aids are less likely to have chronic illnesses. Schedule
an appointment today for a hearing consultation.
