Not Just About Hearing

At Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus, we go a step further than many hearing clinics by monitoring health concerns that relate to hearing. One of these important concerns is the possibility of falling which is increased by untreated hearing loss. Backed by solid research, the correlation between falls and hearing loss is not as well known as the link between hearing loss and dementia, but it is just as important and just as dangerous.

The Alarming Statistics

Falls are one of the biggest threats to the senior population. According to a study by the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, people with mild hearing loss have 2.4 times the chance of falling than those with normal hearing. It rises steadily with the degree of hearing loss, which only emphasizes the need to diagnose and treat it as early as possible.

In what way?

While the cause of the correlation between hearing loss and falls hasn't been completely proven, some possible reasons for the link include:

• Reduced Environmental Awareness: It is well established that the sense of hearing plays a very essential role in spatial awareness. Hearing loss may result in delayed responses to possible risks that include falling or tripping over an object or an uneven surface.
• Cognitive Overload: People with untreated hearing loss expend more mental energy than those with normal hearing because constantly trying to hear and understand what is going on around you takes up mental energy that could be used for other functions such as balance. This is a common problem which can be referred to as ‘cognitive load’ and this can affect the stability of a person and may lead to a fall.
• Vestibular System Impact: Inner ear is also involved in the process of hearing, but it also contains the vestibular system which is very important in the maintenance of balance. Loss of hearing can be a sign of problems in the vestibular system, thus increasing the risk of a fall.

Evidence from Research

The fact that hearing loss and falling are connected is not just an assumption. In a study conducted by JAMA Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery it was established that for every 10dB of hearing loss, the fall risk increases by 1. 4 times. Also, it was established that untreated hearing loss, whether due to lack of willingness or lack of access to hearing aids, led to increased hospital admission for falls.

Fall Prevention Measures

If you or someone you know has a hearing loss there are things that can be done to prevent falling forward.

• Get a Hearing Assessment: Routine check-ups of your hearing allow hearing loss to be detected and treated early.
• Consider Hearing Aids: Today’s hearing aids are designed to make things clearer, not just louder. By delivering sound to the brain in the way the brain expects to hear them, we decrease the energy required for hearing and provide more resources for balance, environmental awareness, and dexterity.
• Stay Physically Active: Some forms of exercises such as tai chi or yoga may help with balance and coordination and hence decrease the risk of falling.
• Address Home Safety: Simple changes such as removing or tacking down rugs, decreasing clutter, and improving furniture layout can go a long way in preventing a fall.

Moving Forward Safely

At Timpanogos Hearing & Tinnitus we appreciate that loss of hearing has far reaching consequences on one’s day to day life. Over 20 years of experience have proven to us that treating hearing loss means more than being able to hear well; it means being able to live well. It is thus important to take proactive steps in order to minimize the risk of falling and live a fuller life.

If you are interested in the first step, then please do not hesitate to reach out to us and make an appointment for a hearing assessment!