By Sean Zucker –
Previous research has shown that hearing loss increases the chance of older adults taking a spill—which can be dangerous at any age but is particularly risky for mature adults who tend to be more fragile. It’s a serious concern. A Johns Hopkins University study noted that even mild hearing loss doubles the chances of mature adults falling compared to those with no hearing problems. It’s not surprising then that new evidence suggests hearing aids can drastically reduce this risk.
A new study by the University of Colorado Health (UC Health) specially examined the connection by recruiting almost 300 individuals 60 and older to report on their history of falling and hearing aid use. The related questionnaire probed participants about their hearing loss, hearing aid usage and how often they fall. Each participant was then given a score detailing their fall risk.
Hearing aids stood up to the test. In fact, those who regularly used them were about 50 percent less likely to suffer a fall. Even when adjusting for age, sex, hearing loss severity and medication usage, even modest hearing aid usage lowered their odds of tumbling. “We found, quite significantly, that individuals who wore hearing aids compared to those who didn’t, did show a significantly lower prevalence,” Laura Campos, the study’s lead author reported.
Hearing aids may do more than just help older adults avoid bruises. They could save lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), for example, notes that falls are the top cause of death from injury among people 65 and older. Tumbles also lead to millions of nonfatal injuries. The CDC reports that over 14 million—or one in four— mature adults report falling every year. More than a third of these people report an injury that required medical treatment or restricted their activity for at least one day. Overall, more than 95 percent of all hip fractures are caused by falling, usually from tipping sideways, according to the CDC.
Campos notes that there could be multiple factors impacting the relationship between the risk of falling and hearing loss, indicating additional research is needed. “We still have more work to do to understand this underlying mechanism,” she explained.
Regardless of the causes, the National Council On Aging (NCOA) offers recommendations for mature adults to lessen their chance of falling. These include establishing a steady routine of exercises aimed at improving balance, strength and flexibility. Tracking heart health regularly and reviewing any medications that might have fall-causing side effects. Monitoring personal vision and hearing considerations. Finally, improving home safety by removing tripping hazards, increasing light and installing grab bars in key areas.
