Hearing aids are an incredibly beneficial tool for people with hearing loss, yet only a fraction of the people who need them currently use them.
Data shows us that less than 30% of adults 70 and older who could benefit from hearing aids use them, and that number drops to approximately 16% of people between the ages of 20-69.
While many reasons exist as to why people put off treating their hearing loss, some of it is due to misconceptions surrounding the condition. Let’s take a closer look at a few common hearing loss misconceptions, as well as the importance of early treatment.
Hearing Loss is Just Part of Getting Older
It’s true that the risk of developing hearing loss increases as we age. However, some people take this to mean it’s a harmless part of the aging process, similar to our hair turning grey or developing wrinkles, so nothing needs to be done to address it. In reality, untreated hearing loss is associated with worsening physical, mental and cognitive health.
Your Hearing Isn’t the Problem; Other People Are Just Mumbling
One of the first things affected during the early stages of hearing loss is your ability to understand speech. When people talk, it can often sound muffled or like they are mumbling, which makes it seem as though the person talking needs to speak more clearly. In reality, you aren’t picking up speech sounds the way you used to. You may find that this is particularly an issue in places with a lot of background noise, such as when dining out with friends at Graham’s Grill & Pub.
You Will Be Able to Tell if You Have Hearing Loss
Many assume the signs of hearing loss are obvious, but in actuality, the condition comes on gradually, and signs can be very subtle at first. In fact, many people go through years of having hearing loss before they realize there might be a problem.
Hearing Aids Will Cure Hearing Loss
Hearing aids are a fantastic tool for people with hearing loss. They make it easier to process speech and sounds in any environment and improve your ability to communicate effectively. However, hearing loss is a permanent condition that can’t be cured. Additionally, when you first get them, your brain and ears will need to adjust to a new way of hearing and other methods like learning effective communication strategies may be needed as well to hear your best.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment for a hearing test, contact Ear, Nose & Throat Consultants today.