Ask your audiologist...

Will someone with hearing loss have an increased risk of falling?

Yes, untreated hearing loss is one of many common reasons for taking a fall. The medical treatment for sensori-neural hearing loss (the most common kind for adults) is a hearing aid or aid(s). Hearing and balance are interconnected within the labyrinth of the inner ear (cochlea).

Some other common reasons someone over the age of 65 could take a fall are weakness from a sedentary lifestyle, medications that cause dizziness and poor vision. To decrease your chances of falling it is recommended that you wear your hearing aids if you have a hearing loss. Make sure you exercise and keep yourself strong. If you are unsteady on your feet make sure you use a cane, walker or wheelchair. If your doctor recommends that you use a cane, walker or wheelchair, follow their advice. Your doctor is trying to help you prevent a fall so that you do not injure yourself or end up in the hospital. Remove obstacles like throw rugs or anything that could make you trip. Have your annual eye test and wear your glasses so that you can see where you are walking. Do not try to walk around in the dark. Turn on the lights.

If you suspect a hearing or balance problem please have a hearing evaluation. Nearly 50 percent of individuals between the ages of 70-79 have hearing loss, yet only eight percent use hearing aids. I would rather have my patients wear their hearing aids than to risk a fall and break a hip!

Dr. Tia Flynn is a certified audiologist and has been in business for more than 15 years.

Every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon, Dr. Flynn provides free hearing screenings at 1601 Third St. in Coeur d'Alene. (208) 664-2767. Visit our newly updated website www.affordablehearinginc.com for an online hearing test and helpful videos.