3 Ways Hearing Aids Improve Mental Health

Despite the fact that over 48 million Americans suffer from hearing loss, many wait seven years or more before seeking treatment for their ailments. Studies show that hearing aids, however, can significantly improve mental health in a number of important ways. For example, a hearing aid can reduce the risk of mental decline. A 25 year study, which measured mental decline in both hearing-abled and hearing-impaired adults both with and without hearing aids, saw that the group which wore hearing aids generally suffered less from decline. The pattern matched those without hearing issues.

Another study from Texas A&M found that hearing aids can also improve brain performance. They proctored a number of tests to gauge mental acuity, then gave the participants hearing aids. After six weeks with them, cognition notably increased.

Last, and perhaps most importantly, The National Council on Aging found through a study that hearing aids can lower the risk of depression. In a 4,000 person survey, they found that respondents (all of whom suffered from hearing problems) reported depression at significantly lower rates. Respondents with hearing aids also felt like they had more control over their lives and were generally more positive and mentally healthy and sound.

Key Points:

  • 1Hearing loss is a widespread problem in the U.S. with over 48 million Americans affected.
  • 2On average, it takes someone with hearing loss 7 years to seek treatment. There are many excellent reasons not to wait that long.
  • 3Hearing aids can help stave off mental decline and can even help restore brain function after some decline. People who have hearing loss and wear aids suffer less from depression.


Better Hearing and Speech Month is the perfect time to think about treating hearing loss for yourself or for encouraging someone you love to address it.

See the original at: https://vspblog.com/3-ways-hearing-aids-improve-mental-health/

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Written by HealthStatus
Medical Writer & Editor

HealthStatus has been operating since 1998 providing the best interactive health tools on the Internet, millions of visitors have used our health risk assessment, body fat and calories burned calculators. The HealthStatus editorial team has continued that commitment to excellence by providing our visitors with easy to understand high quality health content for many years.

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