Seeing and hearing the people, places, and moments that matter help to create lasting memories. All our senses are connected. They help us intake and interpret everything around us. However, hearing and vision are two of the most important senses that work together to help us interpret the world around us. That’s why making regular checkups for hearing and vision must be an integral part of your overall health and wellness plan. Still not convinced? Here are four reasons to make your appointment today:
Fact About How Hearing and Vision Work Together
- Hearing enhances the sense of sight, both working as a team to help you perceive and participate in the world around you. A UCLA study ran participants through a series of trials. During the testing, the participants were asked to correctly identify the direction in which a display of dots moved. The study found that when participants heard the dots, it enhanced their ability to see the direction of their movement.
- Older adults may be more likely to experience hearing loss if they also have problems seeing. Furthermore, this may then affect the overall quality of life. Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) investigated links between age-related vision and hearing problems and their combined effects. The study states that even after considering age, the two conditions are linked and significantly affect both physical and mental health.
- Scientists at Johns Hopkins found that vision and hearing loss go hand in hand with cognitive decline. According to the research, both conditions are associated with reduced brain functioning over time. Further, seniors with hearing loss may experience significantly reduced cognitive function at least three years before their normal-hearing counterparts.
- Healthy eyes and ears — along with joints, muscles, and brain — help keep you steady on your feet, reducing your risk of falling. While it’s pretty obvious that seeing your best helps you stay upright, the inner ear also plays an important role in maintaining balance. Conversely, untreated hearing loss could nearly triple your risk of a fall, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins.
Your Health and Wellness Plan Includes Gateway
Hearing and vision work together to help you live your best life. So, remember to keep them both in top shape! Start with a hearing checkup with one of our Gateway audiologists. Contact us to make an appointment.
First published on February 1, 2023.
