Have you checked your blood sugar lately? Have you been monitoring your blood pressure? How about your hearing? If you are concerned about either diabetes or cardiovascular disease, then you are aware of the importance of whole health and wellness.  Hearing healthcare is an important part of a standard wellness check for adults aged 55 and over.

Recent medical studies have shown a correlation between hearing loss and diabetes. Research scientists have compared data and concluded that adults 55 and over with diabetes have a greater chance developing hearing loss and other problems with hearing health. Research suggests that diabetes damages the blood vessels in the inner ear, leading to hearing loss.

Likewise, other studies have concluded that adults over the age of 40 with measured cardiovascular diseases (like hypertension) have shown a greater chance of hearing loss and other hearing problems. The research suggests that adults that are diagnosed with either diabetes or cardiovascular disease (or both) should have their hearing tested as part of their regular health screening.

Check your blood sugar, check your blood pressure…and check your hearing. Can’t hear the songs of your grandchildren? Having trouble hearing the conversation? Don’t let hearing loss separate you from your loved ones. Medical and social research has proven a connection between hearing health and social health.

The research shows that adults with hearing loss are more prone to social separation. Because of this loss of close connections due to strained relationships, suffers of hearing loss – especially women – report more emotional effects of isolation, depression, and anxiety.

In addition to effecting mood and lifestyle, hearing health can affect safety. Sufferers of hearing loss have been proven to be at a greater risk of fall, as well as developing dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease; making the relationships with family and friends all the more important.

Keep your loved ones close, keep your safety in mind…make your hearing health a priority.

Editor’s Note: This article was submitted by Dr. Beth Alberto, Hearing Care of Summerville.