As we age, our bodies undergo a range of changes that can affect our balance, mobility, and overall health. One often-overlooked factor that can significantly increase our risk of falling is untreated hearing loss. According to recent studies, hearing loss can increase the risk of falling by a staggering 200-300%. In this blog post, we’ll explore the link between untreated hearing loss and falls, and what you can do to protect yourself.

The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Falls

Hearing loss can affect our balance and spatial awareness in several ways. When we can’t hear the sounds around us, we rely more heavily on our vision to navigate our environment. However, this can lead to a range of problems, including:

• Reduced awareness of our surroundings, making it harder to detect potential hazards like uneven flooring or slippery surfaces
• Difficulty hearing important auditory cues, such as the sound of footsteps or the creaking of floors, which can help us adjust our balance and movement
• Increased cognitive load, as our brains work harder to process visual information and compensate for our hearing loss

The Consequences of Falls

Falls can have serious consequences, particularly for older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths and hospital admissions among older adults. The financial burden of falls can also be significant, with the average cost of a fall estimated to be around $30,000 per incident.

The Good News: Treating Hearing Loss Can Reduce Your Risk of Falling

Fortunately, treating hearing loss can help reduce your risk of falling. By addressing hearing loss through medical treatment, you can:

• Improve your balance and spatial awareness
• Enhance your cognitive function and reduce cognitive load
• Increase your confidence and mobility

What You Can Do

If you’re concerned about your hearing loss and its potential impact on your risk of falling, there are several steps you can take:

• Schedule a hearing evaluation with an audiologist to assess your hearing and identify any potential issues
• Explore treatment options, such as hearing devices or cochlear implants, to address your hearing loss
• Take steps to improve your overall health and mobility, such as exercising regularly and removing tripping hazards from your home

Conclusion

Untreated hearing loss can have serious consequences, including an increased risk of falling. However, by addressing hearing loss through medical treatment, you can reduce your risk of falling and improve your overall health and well-being. Don’t wait – take the first step towards protecting yourself today by scheduling a hearing evaluation and exploring treatment options.

The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other audiology-related topics, feel free to contact Brooklyn Audiology Associates by clicking here or by calling 718-745-6363.