Did you know that people with hearing loss are more than twice as likely to experience a fall?
As we age, changes in our hearing and vestibular system (the inner ear that controls balance) are common. Healthy ears and hearing are essential to healthy ageing and quality of life. Poor ear health and hearing loss can impact our social, cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. Hearing loss, even small amounts, is also linked to an increased risk for falls.
How can hearing loss affect our health?
Hearing loss is a reduced ability to hear. It ranges from mild to complete hearing loss. People with hearing loss may find it hard to have conversations with friends and family. They may also have trouble understanding a doctor’s advice, responding to warnings, and hearing doorbells and alarms. Hearing loss is linked with our:
- Physical health – conditions such as diabetes and heart disease
- Cognitive health – recognised as a risk factor for dementia
- Social health – can increase the risk of isolation and loneliness
- Emotional wellbeing – can lead to anxiety, stress, or depression
The link between ears, balance and falls
Around 50% of balance issues are related to the ears and the vestibular system. The vestibular system is in the inner ear and helps to maintain your sense of balance. Signs of vestibular loss may include:
- Feeling unsteady on grass, gravel or stairs
- Dizziness when changing positions, like getting up or lying down
- Sudden, unexplained dizziness
Vestibular loss can also cause changes to the way we walk, poor reaction times, difficulties with memory, and problems with spatial awareness, all of which increase the risk of falls.
Who should have a hearing test?
Annual hearing screens are FREE for all adults and are recommended for:
- Adults aged 55 and over
- Anyone experiencing dizziness, tinnitus, or loss of balance
- People with a history of noise exposure
- Those noticing signs of hearing loss, such as struggling to follow conversations or turning the TV up louder than usual
A simple hearing check could help protect your independence, confidence, and overall health. And if you already wear hearing aids, try to be consistent with using them as this has been found to reduce the likelihood of a fall.
For more information visit the Ear Science Institute Australia.