When you think about ways to reduce your healthcare costs, what would you do with the savings? Would you invest in something special for yourself or your family? Or maybe you’d put the extra funds into your savings account? While these are all great ideas, there’s one simple thing that could be costing you far more in healthcare expenses than you might realize — untreated hearing loss.
Research shows that untreated hearing loss can increase healthcare spending by as much as 46% in older adults. Over time, this can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses. Specifically, adding up to over $22,000 in additional costs within just a decade. Let’s dive into why ignoring hearing loss can have such a heavy financial and health toll.
The financial impact of ignoring hearing loss
A study published in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery found startling data regarding the financial consequences of untreated hearing loss. Individuals diagnosed with hearing loss who choose not to address it with hearing aids will spend 26% more on healthcare within the first two years compared to those who opt for hearing aids. This difference becomes even more pronounced after 10 years, with untreated hearing loss patients spending over 46% more on healthcare costs than their peers who treat their condition.
The additional healthcare costs associated with untreated hearing loss stem from a variety of factors, including hospitalizations, medical treatments, and mental health issues. These costs are supported by research from prestigious institutions, such as Johns Hopkins, which explore the broader implications of hearing loss on health.
Untreated hearing loss and its link to hospitalization
A comprehensive study by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health analyzed the medical records of more than 70,000 patients. It revealed that individuals who did not address their hearing loss with hearing aids were 50% more likely to be hospitalized over a 10-year period. These individuals also faced a 44% higher risk of being readmitted within 30 days and were 17% more likely to visit the emergency room.
So, why are people with untreated hearing loss more likely to end up in the hospital? To answer this, we need to understand the impact of hearing loss on the body and brain.
The impact of hearing loss on your brain and overall health
When a person experiences hearing loss later in life, especially after having had normal hearing for many years, the effects on the brain can be profound. Our brains are hardwired to process sound, and losing that ability can cause significant cognitive strain. Language comprehension becomes more difficult, and the brain must work harder to interpret sounds, words, and speech that once came easily.
This ongoing struggle for the brain can lead to a range of negative effects, including:
- Immune system strain. The added stress from the constant effort to hear properly can weaken the immune system. This makes the body more vulnerable to illness.
- Brain shrinkage. Chronic hearing loss has been linked to physical changes in the brain, such as shrinking gray matter, particularly in areas involved in speech processing and memory.
- Cognitive decline. Memory and cognitive functions can be impaired over time. This affects an individual’s ability to think clearly and perform everyday tasks.
- Mental health issues. The mental fatigue from untreated hearing loss can lead to depression and anxiety, as individuals struggle with social isolation and frustration from communication challenges.
These negative outcomes can significantly increase the likelihood of health issues that may require hospitalization or other intensive treatments.
The health risks of untreated hearing loss
Numerous studies have established a clear link between untreated hearing loss and a variety of health risks. The most significant risks include:
- Dementia. Individuals with hearing loss are at a much higher risk of developing cognitive decline and dementia.
- Falls and injuries. Those with untreated hearing loss are more prone to falls. This can result in serious injuries, including fractures and traumatic brain injuries.
- Mental health concerns. Hearing loss has been linked to a higher incidence of depression. The strain of trying to hear and communicate effectively can cause feelings of isolation and frustration.
Can hearing aids reverse the health impacts?
The good news is that the health risks associated with untreated hearing loss can be mitigated with hearing aids. Studies have shown that hearing aids can significantly improve health outcomes for individuals with hearing loss.
- Cognitive improvement. Consistent use of hearing aids has been shown to slow cognitive decline by up to 75%.
- Enhanced brain function. After just two weeks of wearing hearing aids regularly, users often experience improvements in mental clarity and brain function.
- Better balance and reduced fall risk. Hearing aids help users stay more alert, improving balance and reducing the risk of falls and related injuries.
Take control of your health and finances
If you’re struggling with untreated hearing loss or aren’t using your hearing aids as fully as you could be, now is the time to act. Addressing your hearing loss not only improves your quality of life but also helps prevent unnecessary medical costs in the long run.
Don’t let untreated hearing loss drain your healthcare budget. Consult with a hearing specialist near you to explore treatment options right for you.