It’s easy to put things off, even when it comes to something as important as our health. We delay scheduling dentist appointments and annual physicals. Many people experiencing hearing loss do the same when it comes to getting hearing aids.
There are many reasons why people hesitate to address their hearing health. Let’s examine some of them in further detail.
Stigma Surrounding Hearing Aids
Some people with hearing loss worry that hearing aids will make them look old or as though they are not as capable as they once were without them. A study in 2009 interviewed participants who were experiencing hearing loss, but not using hearing aids. It found that perceived stigma and fear of ageism influenced their decision to not wear hearing aids.
In actuality, there are many different styles of hearing aids available. They are small, discrete and some models are Completely-in-the-Canal (CIC) which are virtually invisible to other people.
Hearing Loss Can Be Gradual
Often times hearing loss starts out so gradually that people don’t even notice it. This is especially true in age-related hearing loss. Even though someone might be at a place where they could benefit from hearing aids, their hearing loss has not gotten severe enough for them to think help is needed.
Minimizing the Problem
Other times people do notice that they are struggling to hear, but don’t consider it to be a problem. They might write it off as a natural part of the aging process, or assume their surroundings are what is causing the problem. They may think that the restaurant was too loud, or their friend was speaking too quietly. This is especially easy to do when there are still situations when they feel as though they can hear just fine. However, just because a person isn’t experiencing hearing loss in every situation, does not mean that it isn’t impacting their lives.
Facts on Hearing Loss
Regardless of the reason why a person procrastinates on getting hearing aids the numbers are clear. Only a fraction of people experiencing hearing loss are seeking proper treatment.
Here are some quick stats on hearing loss, courtesy of the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders:
- Approximately 37.5 million Americans 18 and older report some trouble hearing.
- 30 million Americans aged 12 and older have hearing loss in both ears.
- 28.8 million American adults could benefit from using hearing aids.
- Only 30% of adults aged 70 or older that would benefit from hearing aids use them.
- Only 16% of adults aged 20-69 who would benefit from hearing aids use them.
Why Early Treatment is Essential
Like all progressive conditions, treatment for hearing loss will be the most effective the sooner it is implemented. Hearing aids help you stay connected to the world around you and continue to engage in all the activities you enjoy, whether that’s going to a book club or visiting the San Diego Opera.
Untreated hearing loss doesn’t just lead to isolation but is connected to several other serious health issues as well, including:
- Dementia and cognitive decline
- Anxiety and depression
- Increased risk of falls
If you or a loved one has questions or concerns about hearing loss or wishes to schedule an appointment with a hearing expert, call San Diego ENT today.