Human beings are social creatures. From birth, we’re dependent on others to care for us and as we grow, our interactions with the people around us shape our lives, and ultimately, define our lives. This is one reason that we are so passionate about hearing – hearing the people around you is key to staying connected and maintaining your wellbeing, especially as you age.
Science has started to examine the connection between socializing and health in aging populations around the world. A 2023 paper published in Nature Human Behavior looked at the connections between loneliness, social isolation and early death among more than 2 million adults and found that those who were socially isolated had a 32% higher risk of dying early from any cause. While the study did not explore why there is a connection between loneliness and early death, it joins a body of research that shows similar results.
As hearing care experts, we know that many people with hearing loss begin to withdraw from social activity as their hearing declines. Listening fatigue and frustration with not being able to follow conversations makes socializing less fun and more work. But the good news is – hearing aids can help!
Every day our hearing care providers watch as people reconnect with their loved ones and rejoin the conversation. We hear from people who have gone back to their favorite book club or started getting coffee with friends again and the joy they share is infectious.
If you need tips for getting out and socializing because you’ve moved or lost friends, check out this article from Mayo Clinic. Think of socializing as “brain exercise” and include going out and talking with others as part of your weekly care routine.
Your local YMCA or Senior Center will likely have resources to help you get connected with your community and may even offer transportation so you can attend events. Give them a call and ask what’s available. Also check out local colleges and universities as some offer interesting classes for seniors, such as a Supreme Court class where you review and discuss current cases, or a movie class where you view foreign films with a discussion following.
If you haven’t explored hearing aids yet, schedule a free hearing test at HearingLife. Our hearing instrument specialists and audiologists are experts in helping you reconnect with what matters to you – whether that’s busy social outings or quiet book club meetings.