What if I told you there was one simple step you could take that would very likely improve your life when you get older? Would you take it? I’m guessing most of us say we would, but evidence is to the contrary. That simple step is getting your hearing tested and if the test proves you have a hearing loss, you get and wear hearing aids. See I told you it was simple. But statistics show that even if you need them, you won’t wear them. That’s unfortunate for many reasons because I am here to tell you that after wearing hearing aids for six years now, I am a huge fan. It’s not just because I can hear as good (or better now!) than most. Instead it is because of all the proven health benefits that come from wearing aids that correct my hearing loss.
Six years ago, almost to the day, I finally took the step to get my hearing tested. Like most people with some hearing loss, I knew that my hearing wasn’t what it used to be. Thanks to my writing of this blog, I started researching the why and how before I even got tested and what I learned shocked me. The biggest reason we need to wear them if we need them is because of all the overlooked health benefits that are diminished when we do.
What are some of consequences from not hearing well and refusing to wear aids? A study done in 2019 by the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society showed increases in three main areas by those not wearing hearing aids when needed. They are:
An increased risk of dementia by 18 percentage points.
An increased risk of fall-related injury by 13 percentage points.
A risk of developing anxiety or depression by 11 percentage points.
While the study did not prove that wearing hearing aids could solve the underlying problems associated with hearing loss, they did appear to show a strong delay in any potential conditions.
- Of most interest to me was the potential for cognitive decline. Another research project from Columbia University done in 2019 showed that there exists a significant link between cognitive decline for every 10 decibels of loss and “most dramatically in those who were just 10 decibels short of perfect hearing.” Apparently it doesn’t take much loss for our brains to struggle with the loss deficit in ways that we likely aren’t even aware of. How? Scientists speculate that when we can’t hear well our brains have to work much harder and that causes cognitive overload. That constant stress to our brains can literally wear it out faster. So when we lose tiny bits of our ability to hear as time goes by, our cognitive abilities can also be shrinking so slowly that we don’t notice—until it is too late. Even worse was another study showing that the link between hearing loss and increased risk factor for dementia occurred most significantly in people ages 45 to 64!
Although an increased risk of dementia, fall-related injury and depression are bad enough, the list doesn’t end there. According to more studies, hearing loss increases:
Risk factor for loneliness and increased social isolation.
Reduced memory capacity due to cognitive overload.
Higher levels of anxiety and stress.
Great chance of stroke, peripheral vascular disease and heart attacks.
Diminished quality of life.
Because hearing loss (in most cases) happens so gradually, most people learn to adjust slightly to overcompensate. While that might be okay when you are 45, by the time you are nearing 65, you likely don’t even realize how challenged your hearing really is. Unfortunately, according to the research your brain is already taxed and potentially suffering from the extra stress of trying to understand and communicate. Or perhaps potentially worse, you just shut don’t and don’t even try.
Besides aging, common reasons for losing our hearing are a result of all that loud music we listened to when we were young. Or, if you had an occupation that exposed you to loud noises repeatedly you likely suffered—therefore men are almost twice as likely to as women to have loss at age 50. Or there are others like me where hearing loss is genetic.
Overall, The Centers of Disease Control believe that 15 to 20% of the U.S. population has trouble hearing. Then once you are in the age range of 65 to 75, it is estimated that one in three have a loss. Once 75 years of age, approximately one-half of the population needs a hearing aid. Sadly, of all of us who definitely need them, only 30% ever go on to actually get them and wear them.
So what about me? My original hearing aids that I bought six years ago finally started making a buzzing noise so a week ago I made another appointment with my local Costco Hearing Center. After completing a new test, I learned that my hearing is virtually the same as it was six years ago. That’s good! And because the life of the hearing aids I bought was only estimated at five years, I felt like I received an extra bonus year by going for six. And that was in spite of the fact that I accidentally jumped into a swimming pool while wearing them in Mexico about three years ago!
How are my new “ears?” Absolutely fabulous. And yes I am wearing them in the photo above with the puppies! These new hearing aids from Costco are the Kirkland Premium 10.0T. While I’m well aware that they are a Costco “knock-off” of a major hearing aid company, who needs a name-brand when I can get them at such a great price? In fact, my new hearing aids costs $300 less than my first pair six years ago. Unless you have more money than you need, or insurance that covers the entire cost, I recommend you go to Costco.
So what do I get for my $1,400? The minute I put them on I knew they were noticeably improved. In six years the technology has clearly been enhanced. Now the sound is much more natural, so much so that it sounds completely normal when listening to people speak, watching tv or answering the phone. Just like my first pair, these new ones stream wirelessly to my iphone but even better, I can now answer my phone just by hitting a tiny button on my right hearing aid. From there I can speak (like talking to myself) into the phone without holding the phone or even having it visible. Now I can look like all those people walking around talking to themselves while actually talking on the phone. I can also program them from my phone to listen to music, the television, and even in a restaurant where I can block out some of the background noise and focus on whomever is speaking. Oh, and as an add-on, my new hearing aids are actually water-resistant to 3 meters. No more freaking out if I jump into a swimming pool with them on. In addition, my new ears are also rechargeable so no need to continuously buy batteries.
Perhaps best of all, just like with my first pair of hearing aids, no one knows I’m wearing them unless I tell them. I understand that they do take a short time to adjust to, but once you make them a habit wearing them is as natural as brushing your teeth every morning. When you consider all the health benefits, then not wearing them is really only because, #1 you can’t afford them, or #2 your vanity won’t let you. I get the money part but the vanity doesn’t make any sense when you consider what you are doing to your brain and overall health now and in the future. And if someone you know needs them, I strongly encourage you have them read this article along with the supporting studies. Surely it is SMART to remember that this simple step is one of the SMARTest things you can do for yourself and those you love as we age.
Previous articles I wrote about hearing aids:
How is Your Hearing? Five Reasons It Matters
Do My Hearing Aids Make Me Look Fat?
Thanks for this. I am putting getting hearing tests on my to-do list (post move!). I know hubby’s hearing has gotten worse. I think my not hearing him is more about focus and attention…. but I’m willing to get a test too. 🙂
Hey Pat! Yes I remember you have a lot going on in your life right now so best to wait until you get to your new home. But obviously I think it is pretty important for us to check it out because I think you, like me, are pretty attached to your brain and how well you think! I do agree that focus and attention is important for our hearing (or noticing for that matter!) But it never hurts to be proactive with our health! ~Kathy
Who knew? I forwarded your article to my mom who recently started wearing a hearing aid. Not sure how different they are in Belgium, but I’m sure the benefits are the same. 🙂 My father-in-law also has been wearing a hearing aid for ages. He chews through batteries, though, even after upgrades and improvements. Mark is constantly fixing things via his dad’s phone app. The technology is too complicated for a 90-year old!
Hi Liesbet! Thanks for sharing the post. I hope there is something in there that is helpful to your mom. And it sounds like your dad might need a newer model. My batteries (with my first set) usually lasted about 4-5 days even with a lot of streaming. Of course that might be what you were talking about! They sure help though and it is still important to do. I do imagine that the technology can be challenging for some. But again, it is so important for them NOT to be used. Just know that it can happen to people of any age so if you notice it not what it used to be, just get it tested. ~Kathy
Thanks for your reply, Kathy. My second pair of hearing aids is less than a year old.
BTW I also agree that the mask wearing has been a bit problematic. I got some alternative mask holders from Amazon – they hold the mask loops around the back of your head sort of – not bad, but not the greatest either. Don’t stay in place all that well. So I just do the best I can with the mask loops around my ears and constantly check to be sure my hearing aids are still in place.
The T-Coil technology sounds very interesting. Going to look into that.
Oh – and yes, these hearing aids are almost invisible – so vanity is the least of my “complaints.”
Your information has been so very helpful!
I got tested two years ago and everything was fine. Should probably get tested again. But I hope I don’t need them b/c I know I am ear-challenged. I simply cannot keep earbuds in my ears, no matter how hard I try.. So how could hearing aids possibly stay in my ears? And then there’s keeping track of them … I can barely manage now what with the keys, the glasses, the wallet, the iphone, the ipad … and now the facemask. I just know if I had hearing aids I’d lose them in five minutes.
Hi Tom! I’ll admit there is a bit of a learning curve with using them. But it is sort of like wearing glasses, you just put them into your routine. It is a hassle with the masks but now that more and more of us are getting vaccinated I’m hoping that will be less of an issue. And besides, when you really “get” how much the hearing aids help you then you know how important it is. Of course having Thom talk to me in the morning and not hearing him that well, I am constantly reminded to put them on. I suppose if you live alone or down’t talk to anyone much (in person or on the phone) you would be less inclined. But Thom and I are talkers and now I can use the phone — and stream music and podcasts so easily to my “ears” that they make the choice easy. And no, in spite of forgetting about them and jumping in the pool (and I did get into the shower once before remembering) I have never once lost them! ~Kathy
Hi Kathy,
Loved this article! And, yes, the masks definitely make it more difficult. I just had my hearing tested and it’s still good. However, if I need hearing aids, I will for sure get them. My step dad had them and when he did wear them, he complained about them. They were not as good as yours are for sure! He didn’t like to wear them so they stayed in the case most of the time.
We actually wrote a blog on “the hidden disability: hearing loss with aging’. We found the same information as you did and it was quite disturbing. The amount of social isolation and depression you can put yourself through just because of vanity. We did some research into T-coils and it sounds like very intriguing technology.
Some of our theaters in our area have the hearing loops installed and we have heard it really makes a difference for the theater goer experience. If you want to look them up, try this link http://www.americanhearingloop.com/what-is-this-t-coil-in-a-hearing-aid/.
Great information and insight into something that is more prevalent than people think!
Hi Debbie!
Good for you for proactively getting your hearing checked just to be sure. As far as your step-dad goes, I really think that previous versions of hearing aids don’t even compare to what is available now but I understand some of the reluctance that people might feel going in again to see what is available. One (more) reason I love Costco is that you can do a trial of 90 days no questions asked. If you still don’t want them or know you won’t wear them you can return them.
I will have to pop over and read your blog post about hearing aids. I think it is such an important topic. And yes, isn’t the news about T-coils interesting? I didn’t even know it was a “thing” until I saw my hearing aids has that technology. Where I live there are LOTS of seniors and I was told that many local places have that capability. I can’t wait for theaters, concerts and lecture halls to open up again once it is completely safe and try that out. Thanks for linking that bit about the T-coil. I don’t think people who have gradually lost their hearing realize what a difference it means to hear really good for a change.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this! ~Kathy
Hi Kathy,
What great information you shared! Thank you so much for bringing up a topic some people don’t want to hear about…haha
A friend of mine denied the need for hearing aids for years even though he suffered with obvious loss of hearing. After obtaining a hearing test with a diagnosis for a need he still had several more years to “work himself into it”. Once he got the hearing aids he remarked it was like turning on a switch where he could hear again. Wonderful! Unfortunately, he didn’t get the fantastic Costco price, but paid 3-4X that price you mentioned. Hopefully, next time he can get the Costco price.
Another friend’s husband is a “hearing aid denier”. From what she tells me it has definitely led to cognitive decline for him, and resulting in less quality in their lives together. Many times my friend ends up “translating” for her husband because he cannot hear and has a confused look on his face. So sad this has happened when it could have been different. If I live long enough I will likely need a hearing aid and I hope have the abilities to take care of myself.
It seems for hearing and teeth issues older folks are generally on their own with the expenses. Unless, a person has some additional health coverage that may handle part of the expense. Both hearing and dental health are important to our overall health. They can be expensive and many people delay taking care of these needs. Hoping they will go away…and they will. Teeth lost as well as hearing loss.
I loved your story about jumping in the pool with your hearing aids in place! That event truly illustrates how you are “going for it”! Leading your best life! YOU GO GIRL!
Ruthie
P.S. The photo of you with the puppies was darling.
Hi Ruthie!
Thanks for sharing your experiences with people not being able to hear well. And as you said, it takes many people a while to “work themselves into it.” But then once they do it is usually such a relief. Of course I also know an older gentleman who has them but won’t wear them. He thinks it’s a hassle and there’s no one around except his wife mostly (especially during COVID). But I think that wearing them is just a habit. Like wearing glasses or brushing your teeth. Just something I do every morning–put them on in the morning and take them off at night. In fact, I have even gotten into bed before realizing I was wearing them. They are so comfortable and you get so used to them that I hardly even notice them (especially these new ones!!!)
And your right that it is similar with teeth. If you don’t take care of them they won’t last and then you have to get them pulled or spend a GREAT DEAL more money. That topic would also make a good blog post actually. Because there is plenty of proof that if you don’t take good care of your teeth there are all sorts of negative consequences. Far better to take care of any issues the sooner the better.
Plus I’m glad you liked the photo with the puppies. Thom and I have been volunteering at a local Animal Rescue. We aren’t ready to replace the loss of our dear Kloe since it happened in January so this fits our needs to be around other dogs. And it has also taught me that when we are ready to adopt it won’t be a puppy. So cute but LOTS of work.
Thanks again for your thoughts! ~Kathy
My mom suffers from hearing loss. We used to laugh when she said she couldn’t always hear the “nts” and there’s a big difference between did and didn’t! She refuses to wear hearing aids to this day and during this pandemic, masked faces don’t help anything. I notice that my hearing deteriorates with a mask on just as my hearing improves when I put my glasses on! Unlike my mom, I will invest in hearing aides when I need them.
Hi Mona! Thanks for sharing your personal experience with your mom. I don’t think many people realize how hard it is on those around you when you can’t hear well. You might have been laughing when your mom can’t hear you but what I think happens more times than not is that you just don’t talk as much with them because they can’t hear you anyway. And imagine going to lunch or dinner with someone (or another couple) where one of them can’t hear that well and either doesn’t say much (and you know they can’t hear you) or they just blurt out something that is on there mind but has nothing to do with the conversation up to a point. When that happens a few times you just stop inviting that person to meet with you…and so it goes. Far, far better to get the aid you need so you can stay a part of conversations and life itself. And actually, “hearing better” when you see better is definitely a sign that you are using your eyes as much as your ears because your hearing isn’t up to the job. Why wait to get tested? If you don’t need them then the test will clarify the issue. If you do need them then you can decide if you are ready or not???? What do you think? ~Kathy
“Sobering” info. We are getting tested every year.
Hey Gary! Every year? I’m not sure that would be necessary but I never otherwise. The important thing is to get tested and not “pretend” that we are the same person as we were 30 years ago! ~Kathy
Kathy you are so SMART! The vanity issue is what I hear from most people and the distorted noise for reasons to not wear or get them. Good for you!
Hi Haralee! hahaha…well I certainly don’t think of myself as SMART much of the time! But I do think I embrace change and adventures in a new way. And like I said when I researched what hearing loss can do to my brain–I was all in. I just hope that more and more people get tested and then give them a try. I’m not certain but I think that Costco will give you 90 days to try and will allow you to return them no questions asked….it’s almost worth it just to join Costco for a year and try them! ~Kathy
At 38, I’m considering a hearing aid for one of my ears for this very reason. Will try to visit a hearing doc next time I’m abroad (where the care is great but must cheaper). 🙂
Hi Michelle. I would love to hear what you learn about international prices on Hearing Aids. But remember if you a close family member are Costco members it doesn’t cost anything to get tested there. They actually told me that most people do NOT buy them when they first have a test. It sometimes takes people a few years to “work themselves into it. ” To me I would rather know than not. ~Kathy
Kathy I declare you have some of the best…thought provoking posts! I’m always asking Darrel if his hearing is going because of the volume on the TV. I also am asking people to repeat themselves more and more. Not sure if its my hearing or that I’m distracted but we are both going to get our hearing tested. Will let you know how it goes. Thanks
Hi Amanda. I agree that sometimes we are distracted so we don’t hear one another. But far too often it was because I couldn’t follow along in the conversation. It sounded to me like everyone was getting worse at mumbling!!! And yes, asking people to repeat themselves a lot is a common sign. Would love to know how your test goes and I can’t recommend Costco enough if you are members. ~Kathy
Kathy
You have motivated me to make an appointment. During the lockdown and our continued isolation my husband and I spent more time together than in the past. He mentioned more than once that I should get my hearing checked after we have the vaccine. I believed I had developed a bad habit of tuning him out! Maybe so, maybe not. Often he hears my cell phone ring and I do not. I explain it away that it was in another room.
Thank you for the post! Enlightening
Jamie
Hi Jamie! Those of us who have accepted our hearing loss and have done something about it are REALLY good at seeing the signs in other people who are often blissfully unaware of not hearing well. I can see it when people’s eyes drift away when you talk to them (not always boredom!) And they avoid using the phone–I sure did for years! The television keeps getting louder as well. I think the worst is when you “pretend” to hear what they are saying but only catch a tiny bit of it and act like it’s not a big deal–poor Thom! So yes, just do it! Besides it was somewhat of a relief to know that there was something I could do that would make such a difference…and because I like tech anyway, it was easy for me to do. I hope the same for you! ~Kathy
That is fantastic! I had no idea that hearing aid technology had improved so much but it makes perfect sense! My last experience was with my mom’s hearing loss, and going through her stuff after she passed. All those little packets of hearing aid batteries!!! Mom had complained a lot about the sound quality and interference and all that, so I was dreading needing them some day.
I feel hearing aids are probably in my future, what with my mom’s experience with hearing loss. Great to know of all the ways hearing aids have improved…I’m feeling better about most likely needing them as I continue to age.
Deb
Hi Deb! I guess we shouldn’t be surprised that the technology for hearing aids is advancing so much should we? When you think about cell phones and how the progress, it is similar. Yet like i said to Nancy, a lot of us have a memory of our grandparents and parents “version” and no one wants that. My first aids did seem to be a little “tinny” in sound compared to natural speech but I got so used to it I seldom noticed. But these new ones–wow! So natural sounding I could tell immediately. It is also really cool to see how they are set up perfectly to match your particular ears–and yes it is all done by bluetooth. Nice to see advances in technology that will improve the life of millions of us. Definitely keep them in mind! ~Kathy
Very interesting! My husband and I are both losing some hearing, but watching my mother and stepfather with hearing aids made me very dubious about their value. Thanks for the referral to one that works for you and which, while not cheap, doesn’t an arm and a leg, either. Thanks!
Hi Nancy! I think most of us had very outdated visions of what hearing aids were like for our grandparents (and parents.) But the technology is so very much better than then that I doubt you can even compare. And the nice thing about Costco (if you are a member) is they sell a pair of hearing aids that are usually about $5,000 to $6,000 a pair for $1,400! Not cheap for sure but I know people who spend all kinds of money on special creams and makeup to look prettier and avoid wrinkles but if you can’t hear people–and yes, most other people know it–then the these are a much better investment. Don’t wait. Better to know than wait. ~Kathy
PS The bluetooth connection with my phone – FABULOUS! I had gotten to the point of dreading phone conversations. Now – BRING ‘EM ON!
XO
Karen
Oh me too Karen. I too avoided phone calls for many years…maybe five! I thought I always had a “bad connection” or that people mumbled. Now I realize it was all me! And now like you said they make hearing so very easy and natural. I am VERY grateful for my new ears!
Thank you for this, Kathy. I totally agree! I’m on my second pair and it’s no big deal – just pop them in first thing in the morning and voila! The only problem I have, despite the fine-tuning capabilities – is being in restaurants or noisy groups. I’ve noticed that because of this issue, I am tempted to decline invitations to go out to lunch or dinner. But I put that aside and I go and enjoy being with friends. That’s the most important thing! I can understand how hearing loss can lead to isolation and resulting loneliness. Sigh. And movies in movie theaters – remember those? – not good. My thought is that it’s the way films are made now – with lots of ambient noise and music, which makes it difficult for me to hear the spoken words. Thank you for spreading the word, my dear friend!
Hi Karen! I didn’t know you wear hearing aids. Isn’t it the truth that most people can’t tell? And even if they do catch sight of one it is no different than seeing a person who wears glasses. Besides, these new aids are so very small and sit so nicely behind your ear that they really aren’t an issue…although wearing a mask has made them a bit more problematic. But how old are your aids right now? I was AMAZED at how improved these new models were as far as that ambient noise and music is concerned. They automatically adjust making it much better than my old ones. These new ones also have technology called T-Coil which apparently helps you when you are at the movies are when you are in a crowd (I haven’t tried either of these yet so I can’t verify!) but if the theater or concert or whatever offers T-Coil listening for hearing impaired zero in perfectly on the transmission. From what I was told if you live in a retirement area like mine, so many of the theaters and concert halls have them. I’m really looking forward to seeing (hearing) how they work in that instance. ~Kathy