The pandemic has shown many how important social interactions are to their mental health. As much of the world opens back up, those with hearing loss remain at an increased risk of social isolation and serious loneliness. Continue reading to learn more about what can be done to help overcome these feelings.
Social Isolation Vs. Loneliness
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, loneliness can lead to an increased risk of depression, anxiety and suicide.
A study published in February 2021 suggests that nearly 40% of all Americans experience feelings of serious loneliness. This number increased substantially due to COVID-19. Untreated hearing loss can increase your risk of feeling lonely. Janneke Nachtegaal, the lead author of a 2009 study reported that each degree of hearing loss can increase the risk of developing loneliness by 7%.
It is important to note that loneliness, unlike social isolation, is not a measurable data point. Social isolation is quantifiable, as you can count the number of social interactions you have in a day. Loneliness is more of a feeling. While some people enjoy their alone time, others may feel lonely in a crowded room. Most researchers choose to think of loneliness as the difference between the number of connections you’d like to have and the amount you actually experience.
How Hearing Loss Can Increase Loneliness
Hearing loss is often a gradual condition. Slowly losing your hearing over time can make participating in conversations with friends and family more challenging. What starts as an invitation decline here and there can become normal, as it is easier to stay home than deal with the frustration. A lack of social interaction can then lead to feelings of loneliness.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
The most common solution to hearing loss is the use of hearing aids. While research still needs to be done to confirm the connection between hearing aid usage and a decrease in loneliness, experts believe their patients see a benefit.
Those who opt to seek treatment for their hearing loss spend more time with family and friends and are able to put themselves back into the social situations they once enjoyed, such as attending a paint night at The Clay Studio of Missoula or taking a class at Missoula College.
To learn more about your hearing loss treatment options or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, contact Western Montana Hearing and Speech today.