Hearing loss and quality of life

Hearing loss can also lessen your quality of life. Hearing can be considered your social sense and, as humans, we crave social connection. Annemarie Lindner is a Doctor of Audiology at Hearlix, an independent hearing clinic in Balmain.

She says hearing loss can have a fundamental impact on communicating with others and connecting with them.

“Untreated hearing loss can change how we enjoy social gatherings, theatre, music, and how we perceive emotions,” Dr Lindner said.

“Asking for a repeat or saying ‘what?’ for the third time can cause frustration and a breakdown in this much needed social connection.”

 Dr Lindner said untreated hearing loss not only impacts our social connection, it can also lead to an array of other health issues which affect our quality of life and overall health.

These may include: increased risk of cognitive decline, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease; isolation and loneliness; balance issues; headaches and muscle tension; increased stress and blood pressure; fatigue; depression and impaired memory.

“A 2011 study by Johns Hopkins Medicine and the National Institute on Aging found that adults with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing,” Dr Lindner said.

“Just like scheduling your annual dental check or having an eye exam, your hearing health check-up should become part of your routine health maintenance.

“Hearing loss can be gradual, so an annual hearing check is important and should be taken seriously.”

“If it has been a while since you last had your hearing checked, I would like to invite you to make a hearing health check-up appointment with me as soon as possible.”

To find out more about the testing procedure and hearing loss you can phone 8068 2490, email info@hearlix.com.au or book online.