As a society, wouldn’t we find it strange if most people with vision loss didn’t wear glasses or if most people with bacterial infections didn’t take antibiotics?
Why then, do we find it perfectly normal that most people with a hearing loss don’t use hearing aids? Much research has been conducted on hearing aid use amongst Americans with hearing loss. It is consistently been found that only about 30% of people who could benefit from hearing aids actually uses them (https://www.hear-it.org/35-million-Americans-suffering-from-hearing-loss). This means that about 70% of the 48 million American adults with hearing loss are living untreated. This is a scary statistic because untreated hearing loss can lead to depression, social isolation, safety risks, and even an increased risk for developing dementia.
We’ve set out to discuss some of the most common reasons people with hearing loss often choose not to use hearing aids.
Many People with Hearing Loss Don’t Realize It (Or Don’t Want to)
Hearing loss is extremely gradual, and can often go unnoticed for many years. Once a person does realize some changes in their hearing, there is often a pushback and a period of denial. This could be due to the fact that although awareness is increasing, hearing loss is still viewed as an issue for the “aging”. Because of this, many are reluctant to get a hearing screen.
*It is recommended that annual hearing screens begin at age 50, or even earlier if you notice changes in your hearing. This way, a good baseline can be determined and hearing loss can be detected earlier, allowing more time for intervention with hearing aids or other treatment options.
People Still Believe Hearing Aids are the Clunky Eyesores of Yesteryear
Over the past decade or so, hearing aid technology has absolutely exploded. Hearing aids are no longer the gigantic, bulky, beige clunkers they used to be. In fact, hearing aids of today are incredibly small and discreet, and are packed with exceptionally powerful technology – all designed to make your life easier and less stressful. Many of the top manufacturers have even designed hearing aids that are completely and 100% invisible when inserted into the ear canal.
Some Don’t Realize Hearing Aids Come with an Adjustment Period
Even amongst people who have accepted they have a hearing loss and realize hearing aids of today are micro and discreet, some still do not wear hearing aids. The reason for this may be because of the adjustment period that is associated with hearing aids. Some people expect hearing aids to work like eyeglasses, where you put them in and “presto” perfect hearing. Unfortunately, hearing aids do not work this way. With hearing aids, your ears and brain need time to adjust to hearing again. Your own voice may sound different and some basic daily activities such as eating crunchy foods can sound insanely loud. It is important to know that this is normal.
*Communicating regularly with your audiologist can help to reduce the adjustment period because many of these issues can be taken care of with slight adjustments to the settings on your devices.
Hearing Aids are a Financial Investment
Unfortunately, hearing aids are still a large financial investment for many families, and many insurance companies still do not cover them. With an increased awareness for the benefits of hearing aids on all aspects of life, these laws are slowing changing. However, as of now they still remain an expense. To help lessen this financial burden, many hearing healthcare professionals will offer financing plans at low monthly rates to pay for the aids over a period of time.
When weighing the financial cost of hearing aids, it is important to remember that hearing aids not only improve your hearing. Hearing aids have been scientifically proven to improve your overall quality of life in areas such as your relationships, earning potential, happiness, personal safety, and even cognitive ability.
Hearing Wellness Solutions
If you have noticed some changes in your hearing, don’t be like the 70% of people with hearing loss who go untreated. Hearing aids have the potential to dramatically improve your life, and we would be honored to work with you in finding your perfect solution.