It is no secret that hearing aids can improve your hearing and help with your communication. But did you know that treating your hearing loss can improve your quality of life, increase your independence and even strengthen your feelings of safety?
Improve Balance
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, millions of people 65 years and older experience falls. One in five of those falls causes a serious injury, such as a broken bone or head injury. More than 800,000 patients each year are hospitalized because of a fall, and more than 95 percent of hip fractures are caused by falling.
A 2014 study completed at the Washington University School of Medicine looked at how treating your hearing loss with hearing aids can improve your balance. The results showed that hearing aids can improve your performance on balance tests, thus reducing your risk of falling.
Improve Awareness
Hearing is one of your five senses in addition to sight, smell, taste and touch. These senses help you feel connected to the world around you, making you aware of your environment and prevent accidents.
Hearing aids can help you detect hazards in your surroundings and stay safe during daily activities, as well as keep you alert to approaching cars, sirens and even pets. They will also provide you with the important ability to detect where these sounds are coming from.
Improve Safety
A number of studies have linked untreated hearing loss with the increased risk of accidental injuries, workplace injuries and frequent hospitalizations. Eliminating and protecting yourself from these safety issues can provide hearing aid users with peace of mind and improved sense of security.
Hearing Aid Process
If you are ready to treat your hearing loss to improve your safety, contact an audiologist at San Francisco Audiology.
Your audiologist will review your medical history and perform a physical, including an exam of your ear. Once complete, a series of hearing tests will be performed to determine your type and degree of hearing loss.
Based on the results of your tests, your audiologist will create an individualized treatment plan. For most, hearing aids are the recommended treatment.
To learn about treating your hearing loss, contact San Francisco Audiology today.