We often think of the vestibular system when thinking about our ears and their role in maintaining our balance, but did you know your sense of hearing is also part of the process?

The inner ear contains structures (the utricle and saccule) that respond to gravity to tell the brain where your head is and which way is up, as well as the semicircular canals filled with fluid that respond when you move your head.  These parts of the vestibular system are right next to the cochlea, which is responsible for receiving sound waves (the ‘hearing’ part of the ear). These structures share a nerve pathway to the brain called the vestibulocochlear nerve.

Researchers discovered that people with untreated hearing loss have three times the risk of falling than people without (source). 

There are several possible explanations as to what is going on.

• Loss of hearing can negatively impact a person’s awareness of their surroundings, making tripping over something more likely.

• Cognitive load: more energy being spent on making sense of unclear sounds means less energy in the brain to process complex tasks like walking and moving.

• Damage to the hearing system in the ear can also mean damage to the vestibular system sensors located there.

There is good news

Researchers at the Washington University of Medicine discovered that using hearing aids improved balance for people with hearing loss. Participants aged 69-91 went through a variety of standard balance tests with hearing aids switched off and then switched on. They discovered a significant improvement in balance ability with hearing aids on compared to the same person with their hearing aid switched off.

Researchers believed the difference wasn’t down to greater awareness in this study and instead conclude that people use hearing as part of the balance system.

A separate study (source) in 2019 discovered that use of hearing aids was associated with reduced falls, as well as later onset of dementia and lower depression in older adults.

What can you do if you are experiencing hearing loss?

While hearing loss is a normal part of the aging process, there are things you can do to minimize it, while also protecting your balance.

• Check with your doctor to see if impacted wax buildup is part of the problem. They can safely remove excessive ear wax from your ears which may help improve your hearing.

• Ask your doctor if hearing aids are right for you. There are many different types available now, both fully covered by insurance as well as others which may involve a co-pay.

• Be prepared to try a different brand if the first ones you try are not comfortable or don’t suit you.

Knowledge is power

Knowing that hearing loss contributes to fall risk is another good reason to strengthen all parts of your balance system, including your proprioception, muscle strength and joint flexibility. Now is a great time to start balance training, whether at your local gym, community center, or learning a new skill such as Tai Chi.

Find out how much your hearing aids are helping your balance by getting yourself a ZIBRIO Stability Home scale (or put it on your wish list for the Holidays!).