A new study from researchers at Michigan State University examines data from more than 1,300 adults with hearing loss, and their medical history within the past year. Researchers found that only 45% of the hearing-impaired seniors they studied wore hearing aids.
They have also found out that the seniors who wore hearing aids were less likely to go to the emergency room within the past year. While the difference was only 2%, it is statistically significant and will most likely result in future research.
The seniors who wore hearing aids also spent an average of half day less in hospital than those without hearing aids, and were 4% more likely to seek out the help of a doctor. This is an important finding, as a regular doctor visit is much cheaper than a visit to an emergency room, saving money for a budget sensitive demographic. The researchers hypothesize that hearing aid wearers are thus able to lead healthier, more active lives.