Hearing loss is a very common condition. However, out of the millions of people who would benefit from hearing loss treatment, only a fraction of people actually seeks it.
There are a number of different reasons why this might be the case. Let’s examine a few of the more common excuses for not treating your hearing loss as well as why it’s so important that you do so.
Thinking You Are Too Young To Have Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is more likely the older you are, but it can happen at any age. Various causes such as exposure to loud noises, taking certain medications and a family history can make you more prone to developing hearing loss.
Worried About the Stigma of Hearing Aids
Sometimes, when people say they are too young to have hearing loss, what they really mean is, “Getting treatment for hearing loss will make me look old.” This ties back to the stigma surrounding hearing aid use. Many people are afraid that others will view them as older and less capable if they wear hearing aids, and this causes them to delay seeking treatment.
Believing Hearing Loss Is Not a Big Deal
One of the biggest barriers to hearing loss is that many people with hearing loss don’t think it’s that big of an issue. They have either accepted it as a normal part of the aging process and believe it’s not worth treating or they don’t even realize they have a problem hearing. Most hearing loss occurs gradually, which can make it easier not to think that anything is wrong.
If you have a loved one you believe has hearing loss, it can be frustrating when they refuse to acknowledge it. In this case, it may be helpful to talk to them about the ways it affects you. Pick a time to talk when you are both calm and not stressed about other things. Frame it as concern over their health and them missing out on things like following the conversation during family dinners at Backyard Grill.
By seeing the impact their hearing loss has had on others, people are more likely to seek treatment.
Why Treating Hearing Loss Is So Important
Research has shown that there are numerous negative consequences of untreated hearing loss. Treating your hearing loss can help avoid these issues and lead to:
- Improved mental health and decreased feelings of depression and anxiety
- Reduced risk of balance issues and injury from falls
- Lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia
- More confidence in social situations
- Better relationships with others
Prioritize your health and happiness by calling North Shore Audio-Vestibular Lab today to schedule an appointment for a hearing test.