Most people -; up to 94% of U.S. adults -; experience at least some dulling of their senses with age, finding themselves squinting at screens, craving stronger flavors, and missing snatches of conversations more and more frequently. Researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine are looking into how these changes can go beyond mere inconvenience and actually worsen overall mental health in older adults.
Along with Alexander Wang, a medical student at the UChicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Pinto recently led a study examining the prevalence and impact of sensory impairments among older adults. They found that people with sensory disabilities tend to have worse mental health, and that different types of sensory disability were associated with different aspects of mental health.
A recent study highlights how declining senses, such as vision and hearing, are linked to worsening mental health in older adults. As individuals age, the gradual loss of sensory abilities can lead to increased feelings of isolation, frustration, and depression. Reduced social interaction due to hearing impairments, for instance, can make communication more difficult, leading to loneliness and even cognitive decline. Similarly, vision loss may limit physical activities, decreasing overall life satisfaction. These sensory declines contribute significantly to mental health problems like anxiety, depression, and a diminished sense of independence. The study emphasizes the importance of early intervention, including the use of sensory aids like hearing aids and glasses, to help mitigate these negative mental health effects and improve the quality of life for older adults.
If you or someone you love is facing mental health challenges, whether due to aging or other factors, it’s never too late to seek help. Call RehabNear.Me at 855-339-1112 today. Our compassionate team offers personalized support and treatment options to address mental health and addiction issues. Take the first step toward better health—reach out now.
Declining Senses Linked to Worse Mental Health in Older Adults https://t.co/lQg9MgEbMl #rehabnearme 855-339-1112
— RehabNearMe (@RehabNear_Me) September 12, 2024
