Seeing the benefits of seeking help
Post on 30th September 2019
Research showing that both life expectancy and quality of life are affected in older people living with vision and hearing loss has highlighted the importance of detecting and treating such problems early.
A study by Singapore researchers, published in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society, found that those without visual or hearing impairments lived for longer without limitation on their daily activities as well as having a greater life expectancy.
For example, a visually and hearing impaired 60-year-old had a life expectancy that was on average 4.2 years shorter than a 60-year-old without either impairment.
Within this age group, an individual with both senses impaired could also expect to spend three more years of their life with limitations on physical function than someone without a visual or hearing impairment.
While we cannot stop the ageing process and with it a deterioration of our senses, treating vision and hearing problems early can contribute to longer years in good health.
It makes sense then to make the time to have regular hearing and eye tests.
Hearing changes gradually over time and hearing loss can occur at any age but for the majority it occurs in adults over 50.Scrivens recommends an annual hearing health check for anyone over 50 to identify any changes and see what action is needed. Its branches provide a free NHS hearing service for people who are eligible and have been referred by their GP.
Eyesight also declines over time and it is recommended that most people have an eye test about every two years.
So please don’t ignore those eye test reminders and do call in at your nearest Scrivens branch for professional and friendly advice on looking after your sight and hearing.
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