Myths And Facts About Hearing Loss And Hearing Aids

Hearing loss is a lot more common than many of us realize. In fact, it is estimated that around 48 million people in the United States are experiencing some form of hearing loss right now. Despite so many people experiencing hearing loss, and despite the medical advances that have enabled us to learn more than ever before about hearing loss and the hearing aids used to treat it, there are still so many misconceptions about the subject around. 

This is not good because many of the myths around hearing loss and hearing aids can deter people from seeking the help and support they need with their hearing loss. That being the case, let’s take a closer look at the myths and facts about hearing loss and hearing aids because, the better informed we all are, the better our collective aural health will be.

Myth: Hearing Loss is Something That Only Happens to Seniors

Although it is commonly believed that most hearing loss is age-related, and there is a significant correlation between advancing age and hearing loss, anyone can experience a decline in their hearing at any age. In fact, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) states that around 40% of Americans experiencing hearing loss are under 60 years old, so it is a good idea to take your hearing health seriously at any age.

Myth: Hearing Loss Has No Impact on Your Overall Health 

Although some people who experience hearing loss will not notice any significant impact on their overall health and wellbeing, there is lots of evidence to suggest that it can have an effect. For example, people who experience hearing loss may have an increased risk of dementia which could be linked to the social isolation and cognitive decline that often comes with hearing loss. Not only that, but hearing loss can also cause balance issues and, according to some studies, could increase your risk of cardiovascular disease too. This is why it is so important that you speak to a trained hearing instrument specialist (HIS) if you are experiencing even mild hearing loss.

Myth: Hearing Aids Can Restore Your Hearing Levels

Many people think that, once they have visited their hearing instrument specialist and had hearing aids fitted, they will be able to hear just as well as they did before they experienced hearing loss. This is not normally the case. Although it is unlikely hearing aids will restore your hearing to its former glory, it is still important that you seek hearing aids because they will help to amplify sounds and improve the clarity with which you hear them.

Myth: Hearing Aids Are Big and Bulky

This would have been the case many years ago, but hearing is technology has come a long way since then, and right now, you can buy hearing aids that are practically invisible to anyone who is not specifically looking for them. So, if you are someone who is worried about visiting a hearing instrument specialist because you do not want to be seen wearing a huge hearing aid, you really do not have to worry. Make an appointment to discuss your hearing loss and you will be pleasantly surprised by modern hearing aid technology, how small it is and what it can do for you.

Myth: You Do Not Need to See a Hearing Instrument Specialist for Mild Hearing Loss

Even if your hearing loss is incredibly mild and you are used to it, you should get it checked out because hearing loss is usually something that will get worse and worse over time if it is not treated by a hearing instrument specialist. You might be getting along okay now by turning the volume up or asking friends and family members to speak louder, but there will come a time when that is simply not enough and you will need to seek help, so it is better to get your hearing looked at now before it gets worse, than to wait and let it develop.

As you can see, there are a lot of myths about hearing loss and hearing aids, which are so common that most people believe them but now you know the truth, you can take better care of your hearing health than ever before.

If you are worried about hearing loss and you would like to talk to an experienced hearing instrument specialist who can test your hearing today, then do not hesitate to get in touch with the passionate and experienced team at Beltone Hearing Center – Lethbridge. Call us at 403-942-4327. We’re here when you need help with your hearing.