Physical activity is an essential part of a healthy body. It reduces feelings of anxiety, regulates blood pressure, improves sleep and lessens your risk of cardiovascular disease, some cancers and type 2 diabetes.
With all the benefits physical activity provides, including it in your daily routine is essential. One thing that can negatively impact your level of physical activity is hearing loss.
How Does Hearing Loss Affect Physical Activity Levels?
A 2021 study of 291 participants found that hearing loss was independently associated with poorer physical activity among adults aged 60-69. They got less moderate-to-vigorous and light-intensity exercise and displayed more sedentary behaviors. Their physical activity patterns were also more fragmented than those of their counterparts without hearing loss.
The study suggested a few possible reasons behind the dip in physical activity:
- Older adults with hearing loss experience greater social isolation, giving them fewer chances to exercise in groups
- Hearing loss is associated with a greater risk of depression, which can cause lower physical activity levels
- Hearing loss puts a heavy cognitive load on the body, causing excessive tiredness and an inability to stay active for an extended period
- Hearing loss is associated with a higher risk of falls
While the results remained consistent after adjusting for age, sex, education level, race and other conditions, the researchers stressed that it’s possible that different factors could explain the results. Although it’s a possibility, it’s still crucial to focus on getting the recommended 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day.
Tips To Increase Physical Activity
The benefits of physical activity are too great to ignore. If hearing loss has led to a dip in exercise, try a few of the following to get back in the game:
- Join a team. Joining a team sport is a great way to hit your physical activity levels. You could join a pickleball team, do Tai Chi in Caras Park, take water aerobics or start your own yoga club.
- Take walks. A brisk walk is an excellent form of exercise for older adults. Add a 30-minute walk to the end of every day.
- Watch online videos. You can find countless workout videos online. Try searching for videos tailored to older adults. These videos are usually quick, free and easy to do at home.
- Wear hearing aids. Hearing aids help you connect with the world. With an easier connection, you can feel confident joining group workouts.
However you choose to get exercise, remember to start slow and reward yourself for each accomplishment. Whether you grab a takeout latte because you attended a yoga class or buy a new book because you found a local team to join, every milestone is worth celebrating.
For more information on staying healthy with hearing loss, contact Western Montana Hearing and Speech today.