Hearing Loss and Depression in Seniors: Understanding the Connection
The National Council on Aging says at least one in three adults aged 65-74 have hearing loss. The number rises to over 50% in those 75 years and older.
Mental health is also a common issue in the aging population. The CDC says that at least 4% of adults 70 years or older have depression.
How are these conditions that affect so many seniors connected? Can issues with hearing lead to problems with mental health?
Read on to learn about the link between hearing loss and depression and how to manage it.
The Link Between Hearing Loss and Depression
Hearing loss makes it frustrating to go out and socialize. These communication difficulties can eventually lead to social isolation.
It also leads to unpleasant thoughts and feelings. Seniors may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their inability to communicate as they once did.
It may eventually seem pointless to even try. Seniors may skip out on events with family and friends. They'll refuse to participate in activities at their La Miranda senior living community.
This explains the link between hearing loss and depression. One leads to life changes and emotions that are significant risk factors for the other.
Other Impacts of Hearing Loss
Many seniors don't seek early treatment for auditory impairment. They wait years before seeing a doctor about it. They may also fail to wear hearing aids or other treatment devices.
Hearing is more important for a senior's overall physical and emotional well-being than they may realize. Everyone needs to understand the importance of early detection and treatment.
Seniors and caregivers need to know what signs to look for. It'll help them get early treatment to stop the development of mental health conditions and hearing decline. It also helps senior living in La Mirada understand its residents.
Hearing Loss and Senior Mental Health
A report from the nonprofit organization FAIR found the largest spike in mental health diagnoses from 2019-2023 was in adults 65 years and older. Their numbers rose 57.4%.
Hearing loss can be the explanation. It has a massive effect on overall senior mental health. Beyond depression, it can cause conditions such as:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Schizophrenia
Mental health conditions also tend to feed off of each other and happen at the same time. A senior's anxiety over their hearing loss may also lead them to isolate and become depressed.
Cognitive Effects
Hearing loss affects not only senior mental health but also accelerates the rate of cognitive decline. The brain uses resources it would otherwise use for memory and thinking to try to understand conversations.
Without treatment, hearing loss increases the rate of developing dementia and other memory-related conditions.
Physical Impact
The ears are connected to the body's balance system. If they're damaged in any way, staying balanced can be difficult.
This increases the risk of falls. Seniors may also exercise less, which only worsens the other effects of hearing loss. It speeds up cognitive decline and worsens mental health.
Stopping the Cycle of Hearing Loss and Depression
Aging and depression are strongly but not inevitably linked. There are steps you can take to break the chain.
Protect your mind and get early treatment. It keeps your hearing loss and depression from getting worse.
Protect Your Mental and Cognitive Health
Try relaxation techniques such as mindfulness and meditation when depressive symptoms appear. They can shift your focus onto the present moment and away from your worries.
Engage in your favorite pastimes. Go out with others to prevent isolation, even if you initially feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.
Play brain games and other engaging activities. They'll keep your mind active and prevent cognitive decline.
Visit a Doctor
Treatment for hearing loss starts with reaching out to your primary care provider. They'll check for a simple solution, such as removing a buildup of earwax.
If they can't provide the proper treatment, they'll refer you to a specialist, such as an:
- Audiologist
- Otolaryngologist
- Occupational therapist
The professional can help you find the right treatment, whether it's medication or something more substantial.
Hearing Aids
According to the National Council on Aging, approximately 8.8 million Americans could benefit from hearing aids. Only 16% of those 20-69 who have the devices actually use them.
Stigma, cost, and other factors keep them from tuning in. The devices are more comfortable and affordable than ever before. They can even be placed behind the ear to make them less noticeable.
There are many hearing aid benefits, including:
- Lower risk for developing depression and other mental health issues
- Better communication
- Reduced isolation
Get them fit to your head and ask for thorough instructions on how to use them. Don't be afraid to turn them on whenever you need them. It could be the depression treatment you never realized you needed.
Mental Health Counseling
Physical treatment isn't always enough to help with the psychological impact of hearing loss. You may want to see a mental health professional.
They can help you deal with how your hearing loss has affected your life. Treat the loss of your hearing like a grieving process. In time, you'll feel more like yourself again.
Building Support Systems
No senior should have to take on an issue as troubling as hearing loss by themselves. Finding independent living in La Mirada also doesn't have to mean doing everything alone.
Surround yourself with friends and family. Ask them to speak slowly and clearly so you can understand conversations.
Go to support groups with other seniors in similar situations. Look to professional institutions such as the Hearing Loss Association of America. They can provide resources to help you move forward.
Find Senior Living in La Mirada
The link between hearing loss and depression starts with social isolation. It then builds into other mental health issues and worsening cognitive decline. Early diagnosis and treatment are the best way to counter it.
The Palms La Mirada Senior Living is situated between Los Angeles and Anaheim. Our all-inclusive amenities can make anyone feel at home.
We offer independent living in La Mirada, CA. Our community allows seniors to remain independent while enjoying interactions with family and friends. Contact us to learn more today.