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UPI
5 days ago
- Health
- UPI
Hearing aids improve social life, study finds
Nearly 30 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids, only 16% of people who need them actually use them, according to the National Council on Aging. Photo by pb826/ Pixabay July 5 (UPI) -- Some folks won't use hearing aids because they're worried the devices will make them look old or get in the way of their social life. Nothing could be farther from the truth, a new evidence review says. Hearing aids dramatically improve a person's social engagement and reduce feelings of isolation or loneliness, based on evidence from 65 prior studies involving nearly 6,000 people. "We found that adults with hearing loss who used hearing aids or cochlear implants were more socially engaged and felt less isolated compared to those who didn't use them," senior researcher Dr. Janet Choi, an otolaryngologist with the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine, said in a news release. "This suggests that hearing devices may help prevent the social disconnection and broader health consequences that can follow untreated hearing loss," Choi added. Nearly 30 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids, only 16% of people who need them actually use them, according to the National Council on Aging. The stigma surrounding hearing loss is one common reason why people eschew hearing aids, the NCOA says, along with the cost and hassle of the devices. To see whether these fears are well-founded, researchers conducted a review of previous studies that investigated how hearing aids affect users' quality of life. The review focused specifically on three key measures: Quality of social life, perceived social handicaps caused by hearing loss and loneliness. Results showed that people using hearing devices felt more socially connected and less limited in social situations. They were better able to engage in group conversations and felt more at ease in noisy environments, researchers said. Hearing aid users also felt less socially handicapped by their hearing loss, with fewer frustrations caused by trouble keeping up with conversations, researchers said. The increased confidence provided by all these benefits helped people connect more easily with others, leading to stronger feelings of belonging and reduced social anxiety, researchers noted. All of this could mean that hearing aids help lower the risk of dementia and brain aging, given that isolation has been linked to cognitive decline, researchers said. "While our study didn't directly measure cognitive outcomes, the improvements we saw in communication and social engagement suggest that by restoring clearer communication, hearing devices may help preserve cognitive health by keeping the brain more actively involved and people more connected," Choi said. These results track with those from a January 2024 study by Choi in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, which found that people who use hearing aids have a nearly 25% lower risk of premature death. "These new findings add to a growing body of research showing that hearing health is deeply connected to overall well-being," Choi said. "We hope this encourages more people to seek treatment and helps clinicians start conversations with patients about how hearing devices can improve their quality of life." The evidence review was published today in JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. More information The National Council on Aging has more about the reasons so few use hearing aids. Copyright © 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Hindustan Times
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Neena Gupta says older women also crave intimacy with a partner: ‘Indian ladies sochte hai ki…'
The mainstream image of romance has long reinforced the idea that desire belongs only to young people, as if love has a strict expiry date. Addressing this narrative, veteran actor Neena Gupta spoke about the stereotypes and the ignorance surrounding the idea that older women don't crave intimacy or emotional connection. In an interview with Bollywood Bubble, along with Anupam Kher, for their upcoming movie Metro... In Dino, she spoke about it. Women, in particular, have their individuality chipped away with age as they take on new roles, as mothers and homemakers. But in the process, they sadly end up letting go of their own desires and identity. Neena Gupta highlighted how this instinct is deep-rooted, stems from societal expectations that push women to 'let go,' but that doesn't mean they actually want to or have to. Neena Gupta said, 'Yeh mat socho ki saath ya sattar ya assi saal ka aadmi ya aurat ko romance ki iccha nahi hoti hogi. Hamare khas kar ladies, India ki ladies sochte hai, ki bas ab toh hogaya. Chalis ke baad hi soch liya ho gaya. Ab mein dekhti hu, middle-aged ladies, gym mein jati hai, they want to remain fit. Iccha toh honi chahiye na, iccha se hi toh voh noor ata hai. Jab sas mein sas hai, who doesn't dream? (Don't think that just because a man or woman is 60, 70, or 80 years old, they no longer desire romance. Especially we, Indian women, think that it's all over with some deciding by 40 itself. But now I see middle-aged women going to the gym, wanting to stay fit. That desire, that's what brings a glow. As long as you are breathing) Tell me which woman or man doesn't dream. Men still go out and do something. But women don't… aged women. Do you think they don't dream? " Neena Gupta very firmly challenged the internalised belief women may have about 'retiring' themselves from desire and passion, especially after becoming mothers. But she is also hopeful as more and more middle-aged women are becoming more conscious, heading to gyms, and reclaiming their spaces, shedding the shame. Several researchers have clearly pointed out that intimacy in old age is beneficial for overall well-being. And it's not just the scientific community; even older couples are acknowledging the benefits. Relationships are expected to tone down with age, as sex becomes somewhat of a taboo, tied to ideas like 'too old for sex.' But keeping intimacy alive, including a good sex life, can actually strengthen the bond. According to an AARP national survey of adults aged 40 and above, 61% believe that sexual activity helps maintain a strong relationship in later years. Moreover, as per the National Council on Aging, a good relationship can substantially boost mental wellbeing by releasing oxytocin, the 'happy hormone.' It also helps keep stress levels low, as having someone to talk to and lean on provides much-needed emotional support and a sense of security. A sense of security is required for healthy ageing. ALSO READ: 'We don't fight, we feel nothing': How emotionally disconnected marriages are fueling mental health epidemic in India
New York Post
31-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Senior citizens are happiest living in these US states, study says
Where you live can have a big impact on your mental health. Particularly for seniors, it's important to settle down in a location that promotes happiness. Older adults face a higher risk of mental health problems due to circumstances like the loss of loved ones, loneliness, chronic illness or disability, medications, changes brought on by retirement and other stressors, according to the National Council on Aging. a senior care resource, recently released its Senior Happiness Index, revealing where in the country seniors are happiest based on WalletHub's state happiness roundup. Experts analyzed various factors like happiness levels per state, cost of living, average life expectancy, health rates in residents over 60 and the number of senior centers per state. Below are the results for the top 10 happiest states for seniors. Utah Idaho Connecticut Delaware Nebraska Hawaii New Hampshire Minnesota New Jersey Vermont 4 Factors like happiness levels per state, cost of living, average life expectancy, health rates in residents over 60 and the number of senior centers per state were considered when compiling the top 10 states for seniors to live. Gordon Fahey – Utah claimed the No. 1 spot for the most content seniors, with a happiness score of 7.69 out of 10. According to the study, Utah's high rank is due to its 'supportive environment' for senior living, good senior health and the third-lowest percentage (21.48%) of seniors living alone, which reduces the risk of social isolation. The researchers mentioned that more than two-fifths of seniors in Utah volunteer, which is the highest rate in the U.S. Volunteering allows the state's aging population to 'stay connected and involved with their community,' commented, which 'contributes significantly' to well-being and happiness. 4 According to the study, Utah's rank is due to its 'supportive environment' for senior living, good senior health and the third-lowest percentage of seniors living alone. Jason – Idaho followed closely behind, with an overall happiness score of 7.38 out of 10. Less than a quarter of seniors in Idaho live alone, the second-lowest rate in the country, and the state ranks in the top five for senior centers. 'Known for its stunning natural landscapes, Idaho offers seniors plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, promoting both physical and mental well-being,' added. Connecticut and Delaware tied for No. 3, scoring a 7.01 out of 10 on the happiness scale. Connecticut has the third-highest average life expectancy and is among the top 10 states for overall health. 4 Idaho has an overall happiness score of 7.38 out of 10. Jeremy – Only 7.2% of Connecticut residents lack health insurance, which ensures access to necessary medical services for the aging population. Connecticut also offers a variety of discounted cultural and immersive experiences for seniors, such as museums, parks, libraries and arts events. According to Delaware is regarded as one of the 'happiest and most supportive states for later life.' The state ranks in the top 10 for overall senior health and happiness, and in the top five for the lowest percentage of people living alone. 4 Only 7.2% of Connecticut residents lack health insurance, ensuring access to necessary medical services for seniors. travelview – considered Delaware's cost of living index 'relatively affordable,' which can help residents maintain a 'comfortable and independent lifestyle.' Other states stood out in these categories, including North Dakota for the most senior centers per 100,000 population and West Virginia for the most affordable cost of living. Hawaii has the lowest percentage of seniors over 65 years old living alone, the highest average life expectancy and the highest senior state of happiness.
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Study reveals 10 happiest states for seniors: Did yours make the list?
Where you live can have a big impact on your mental health. Particularly for seniors, it's important to settle down in a location that promotes happiness. Older adults face a higher risk of mental health problems due to circumstances like the loss of loved ones, loneliness, chronic illness or disability, medications, changes brought on by retirement and other stressors, according to the National Council on Aging. 'Happiest' Us Cities Revealed: See Where Yours Ranks a senior care resource, recently released its Senior Happiness Index, revealing where in the country seniors are happiest based on WalletHub's state happiness roundup. Experts analyzed various factors like happiness levels per state, cost of living, average life expectancy, health rates in residents over 60 and the number of senior centers per state. Read On The Fox News App Below are the results for the top 10 happiest states for seniors. Utah Idaho Connecticut Delaware Nebraska Hawaii New Hampshire Minnesota New Jersey Vermont Utah claimed the No. 1 spot for the most content seniors, with a happiness score of 7.69 out of 10. U.s. Happiness Is At An All-time Low, Study Finds: See Which Countries Rank Higher According to the study, Utah's high rank is due to its "supportive environment" for senior living, good senior health and the third-lowest percentage (21.48%) of seniors living alone, which reduces the risk of social isolation. The researchers mentioned that more than two-fifths of seniors in Utah volunteer, which is the highest rate in the U.S. Volunteering allows the state's aging population to "stay connected and involved with their community," commented, which "contributes significantly" to well-being and happiness. Best And Worst Us States To Drive In: See Where Yours Ranks On The List Idaho followed closely behind, with an overall happiness score of 7.38 out of 10. Less than a quarter of seniors in Idaho live alone, the second-lowest rate in the country, and the state ranks in the top five for senior centers. "Known for its stunning natural landscapes, Idaho offers seniors plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, promoting both physical and mental well-being," added. Connecticut and Delaware tied for No. 3, scoring a 7.01 out of 10 on the happiness scale. Connecticut has the third-highest average life expectancy and is among the top 10 states for overall health. Only 7.2% of Connecticut residents lack health insurance, which ensures access to necessary medical services for the aging population. Click Here To Sign Up For Our Health Newsletter Connecticut also offers a variety of discounted cultural and immersive experiences for seniors, such as museums, parks, libraries and arts events. According to Delaware is regarded as one of the "happiest and most supportive states for later life." The state ranks in the top 10 for overall senior health and happiness, and in the top five for the lowest percentage of people living alone. considered Delaware's cost of living index "relatively affordable," which can help residents maintain a "comfortable and independent lifestyle." For more Health articles, visit Other states stood out in these categories, including North Dakota for the most senior centers per 100,000 population and West Virginia for the most affordable cost of living. Hawaii has the lowest percentage of seniors over 65 years old living alone, the highest average life expectancy and the highest senior state of article source: Study reveals 10 happiest states for seniors: Did yours make the list?
Fox News
30-05-2025
- General
- Fox News
Study reveals 10 happiest states for seniors: Did yours make the list?
Where you live can have a big impact on your mental health. Particularly for seniors, it's important to settle down in a location that promotes happiness. Older adults face a higher risk of mental health problems due to circumstances like the loss of loved ones, loneliness, chronic illness or disability, medications, changes brought on by retirement and other stressors, according to the National Council on Aging. a senior care resource, recently released its Senior Happiness Index, revealing where in the country seniors are happiest based on WalletHub's state happiness roundup. Experts analyzed various factors like happiness levels per state, cost of living, average life expectancy, health rates in residents over 60 and the number of senior centers per state. Below are the results for the top 10 happiest states for seniors. Utah claimed the No. 1 spot for the most content seniors, with a happiness score of 7.69 out of 10. According to the study, Utah's high rank is due to its "supportive environment" for senior living, good senior health and the third-lowest percentage (21.48%) of seniors living alone, which reduces the risk of social isolation. The researchers mentioned that more than two-fifths of seniors in Utah volunteer, which is the highest rate in the U.S. Volunteering allows the state's aging population to "stay connected and involved with their community," commented, which "contributes significantly" to well-being and happiness. Idaho followed closely behind, with an overall happiness score of 7.38 out of 10. Less than a quarter of seniors in Idaho live alone, the second-lowest rate in the country, and the state ranks in the top five for senior centers. "Known for its stunning natural landscapes, Idaho offers seniors plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, promoting both physical and mental well-being," added. Connecticut and Delaware tied for No. 3, scoring a 7.01 out of 10 on the happiness scale. Connecticut has the third-highest average life expectancy and is among the top 10 states for overall health. Only 7.2% of Connecticut residents lack health insurance, which ensures access to necessary medical services for the aging population. Connecticut also offers a variety of discounted cultural and immersive experiences for seniors, such as museums, parks, libraries and arts events. According to Delaware is regarded as one of the "happiest and most supportive states for later life." The state ranks in the top 10 for overall senior health and happiness, and in the top five for the lowest percentage of people living alone. considered Delaware's cost of living index "relatively affordable," which can help residents maintain a "comfortable and independent lifestyle." Other states stood out in these categories, including North Dakota for the most senior centers per 100,000 population and West Virginia for the most affordable cost of living. Hawaii has the lowest percentage of seniors over 65 years old living alone, the highest average life expectancy and the highest senior state of happiness.
