Dental, Vision, and Hearing

Hearing loss is associated with increased risk of social isolation, dementia and depression.

Hearing loss can have many physical and mental health impacts. With difficulty hearing, you may be unable to participate in conversations with family and friends. And you may avoid daily activities such as going out to the store or social events. This social isolation can eventually lead to depression.

Impaired hearing is also strongly linked to an increased risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Some studies have shown that certain areas of the brain that are linked to hearing and communication may shrink from hearing loss. “With dementia, one of the ways you can protect yourself, and maybe slow the onset, is by exercising and stimulating your brain”. “But when you have hearing loss, there's potentially less stimulation to the brain.”

If you have hearing issues, it’s important to get treatment. Hearing aids may prevent some of these health risks and help you better interact with loved ones.

Vision loss is linked to a higher risk of falls, dementia and depression.

As you age, you are at higher risk for vision problems such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and dry eye. You may also experience problems with seeing objects up close (farsightedness) and needing more light to see more clearly.

Vision loss in older adults is linked to increased risk of falls, dementia and depression. It affects your ability to take part in daily activities such as driving, reading the newspaper or watching television. By losing independence, you may be at higher risk for social isolation and depression. Vision loss can also impact your depth perception and balance, putting you at higher risk for falling.

Tooth loss can impact your ability to…

• Speak
• Socialize
• Eat

Untreated gum disease is linked to other health conditions, such as…

• Cardiovascular disease
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Good oral health is also connected to your overall physical and mental health. Studies have shown that gum disease is closely associated with higher risk of heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Untreated gum disease may increase inflammation in the body, which can lead to damage to other tissues and organs.

Maintaining healthy teeth also helps you eat a well-balanced diet. If you have extensive tooth loss, you are less likely to eat nutritiously. That’s because you have difficulty chewing certain high-fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables. Studies have shown that older adults with poor oral health are more likely to be underweight or obese. Tooth loss can also impact a person’s ability to speak, and it can lead to social isolation.

By regularly seeing a dentist for checkups and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can prevent many of these issues or you can get treatment for them.

Many plans offer preventive dental coverage, including annual exams, cleanings, X-rays and fillings. Some plans offer more comprehensive coverage for dental services such as dentures and root canals.

If you neglect one area of your health, such as hearing, vision or dental care, it can have a wider impact on your overall well-being. But with additional benefits to fit your needs, there may be an plan that can help you care for your total health and achieve your best quality of life.