Blue Monday: How hearing care can enhance well-being 

Blue Monday, the third Monday of January, has been dubbed the “most depressing day of the year”. Among the gloom of January, it is a time to reflect on simple yet impactful ways to improve mental health. While January might feel gloomy, prioritizing one’s physical and social well-being offers a powerful antidote. It is easy to forget that hearing health can be part of this effort to take a step towards a happier and more connected life.

 

The Joy of Better Hearing

Looking after your hearing is not just about addressing a physical, sensory need; it is a pathway to connect with one’s surroundings and the people in our lives. Healthy hearing means an improved fuller life. Whether through better communication, increased social activity, or greater workplace success, the benefits of hearing care ripple through every aspect of life.

  • Enhanced communication

Proper hearing care – and timely interventions, such as from hearing aids – can significantly improve your ability to interact with the people around us. A recent (2024) study shows that hearing intervention can improve self-reported communicative functioning of individuals already within six months, with its effects lasting for up to three years. [1] Improved communication fosters more meaningful conversations, whether at home, over the phone, or in group settings.

  • Revitalized social life

Hearing health is key to reducing social barriers. Individuals who address their hearing needs report increased participation in group activities and a decreased sense of social isolation. This improves the quality of life of hearing-impaired individuals and reduces stress amongst their families and caregivers. [2]

  • Professional growth

Hearing aid users perceive improved prospects for promotion, better job opportunities, and higher earnings compared to non-users. For all grades of hearing loss, the unemployment rate of those with hearing aids is much lower than that of those who do not use aids. In the 45-to-64 age group the unemployment rate of those without hearing aids (8.1%) is approximately twice that of those with hearing aids (4.4%). [3]

 

Lifestyle and Well-Being Benefits

An increasing body of research is also breaking down the barriers between mental and physical health when it comes to hearing loss. Hearing health has been associated with improved bodily health as well:

  • Increased Energy

People who use hearing aids experience less physical and mental exhaustion, especially in the evenings. By reducing the strain of listening in challenging environments, hearing aids help preserve energy for other enjoyable activities.

  • Better Sleep

Hearing aid users frequently report better sleep quality compared to those who do not use them. Better sleep not only improves overall health but also contributes to a more positive outlook on life.

  • Enhanced Satisfaction

EuroTrak surveys reveal that individuals who use hearing aids consistently report greater satisfaction with their overall quality of life. Hearing aids improve the ability to enjoy everyday activities, such as following conversations, watching TV with loved ones, and participating in social events. [4]

 

Call to Action

This Blue Monday, consider making a positive change by prioritizing your hearing health. Book a hearing test or explore hearing care solutions. A small step toward better hearing can lead to a lifetime of joy, energy, and connection.

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[1] Sanchez, V. A., Arnold, M. L., Garcia Morales, E. E., Reed, N. S., Faucette, S., Burgard, S., & ACHIEVE Collaborative Study. Effect of hearing intervention on communicative function: A secondary analysis of the ACHIEVE randomized controlled trial. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. (link)

[2] Holman et al., (2021). Hearing aids reduce daily-life fatigue and increase social activity: a longitudinal study. Trends in Hearing, 25, 23312165211052786.(link)

[3] Bridget Shield. (2019). Hearing Loss – Numbers and Costs: Evaluation of the Social and Economic Costs of Hearing Impairment. A Report for Hear-It ASBL. (link)

[4] EHIMA. EuroTrak 2021-2023 surveys. (link)

 

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