When you think of hearing loss, poor communication and softer music are probably the first side effects to come to mind. While these are the most apparent, hearing loss can also adversely affect your physical health.
The National Institute on Aging supported three studies examining how hearing loss affects physical activity rates, physical function over time and overall physical health.
Hearing Loss May Lead To Lower Levels of Physical Activity
A study by researchers from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) and Johns Hopkins University explored the link between hearing loss and physical activity in adults aged 60 to 69. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), the researchers analyzed hearing test results from 291 participants—221 with normal hearing, 48 with mild hearing loss and 22 with moderate to severe hearing loss. Each participant wore a motion sensor for a week to track their time with no physical activity, light activity or moderate to frequent activity. The goal was to determine whether hearing loss is associated with changes in physical activity patterns.
The team concluded that patients with hearing loss were sedentary for approximately 34 more minutes per day than their counterparts without hearing loss. As the severity of hearing loss increased, the more sedentary the patients were likely to be.
Hearing Loss May Weaken Physical Function Over Time
The second study, led by Johns Hopkins and the NIA, examined the relationship between hearing loss and physical function (the body’s ability to perform daily tasks), including balancing and walking. By analyzing data from nearly 3,000 participants, the researchers found that patients with hearing loss displayed worse scores for physical function, balance and walking speed. The researchers continued to monitor patients over approximately eight years and found that those with hearing loss had a faster rate of physical decline.
Hearing Aids Could Improve Physical Health
The third study, using data from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, found that adults with moderate to severe hearing loss experienced faster declines in physical function over six years compared to those with normal hearing. However, those who used hearing aids maintained better physical endurance. These results highlight the importance of screening for and treating hearing loss to support physical health.
What Does All This Mean?
While these three studies suggest a correlation between untreated hearing loss and physical health, they also state that more research is needed to understand why the correlation exists.
In addition to its effect on your physical health, hearing loss can cause feelings of social isolation, poor mental health and strained relationships. If you’re experiencing signs of hearing loss, don’t wait until they negatively impact your life to start treatment. Contact Hearing Healthcare Center, Inc. today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.