By Hear4Good Southern Downs
There is a silent epidemic of hearing loss which impacts the quality of life and health of Australians. World Hearing Day (March 3rd) aims to raise awareness of hearing loss more widely.
Hearing loss is one of those health issues that are far more widespread than you think. It is estimated that one in six people have a significant hearing loss, this is expected to increase to 1 in 4 by 2050. Once you reach the age of 60 the statistics indicate 50% have a hearing loss.
The impacts of untreated hearing loss make it more likely that people develop depression, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy. They may also avoid or withdraw from social situations. The Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing’s (CHeBA) Sydney Memory and Ageing Study from 2005–2017 indicated that there is a significant association between self-reported hearing loss and mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to dementia. The good news is according to a 2017 report published in The Lancet addressing midlife hearing loss may prevent up to 9% of new dementia cases.
The take-home story is that your hearing is critical to your overall health and wellbeing. Do not ignore it, hearing loss doesn’t hurt, and it doesn’t bleed so it can get ignored. Schedule a hearing test today and take the opportunity to live better. Choose a hearing clinic, not a shop, that will look after your hearing first. Choose a local and independent provider that is genuinely able to provide all hearing aid brands.
Hearing Awareness Week runs from March 1 to March 7, with World Hearing Day on March 3.
