Roughly 48 million people in the U.S. experience hearing loss, according to research by Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. That number translates to nearly 1 in every 5 people in America living with hearing loss. Because hearing loss is common, it is important to get the facts straight.
Here is a breakdown of the familiar myths and misconceptions about hearing loss today:
Myth: Hearing loss cannot improve.
- The truth: Because of the ever-developing world of technology and innovations, nearly 95 percent of people with hearing loss can find a hearing aid or assistive device that helps to improve their hearing, according to the Better Hearing Institute. Technology is improving daily, giving people with hearing loss more tools and options then ever before possible to help them manage their hearing experience.
Myth: Hearing loss stops people from being active and involved.
- The truth: Hearing loss cannot keep you from the activities, people, and experiences that you enjoy. There are assistive devices, captioning devices, amplified products, visual signalers – all designed to enable people with hearing loss to have equal access to the activities and experiences open to everyone.
Myth: Hearing aids are for only serious hearing loss.
- The truth: Hearing aids are available for every type and level of hearing loss. If you question your hearing, make an appointment with a health care professional to review the available resources that best fit your lifestyle.
“Roughly 48 million people in the U.S. experience hearing loss.”
Myth: Hearing aids make sounds too loud.
- The truth: Today’s hearing aids can automatically adjust to balance the levels of life’s sounds. In fact, many modern hearing aids no longer have self-managed volume controls – they adjust the sound levels automatically!
Myth: Waiting to get hearing help is OK.
- The truth: AARP said that holding off on getting help with your hearing can be detrimental because the longer you refrain from using a hearing aid/assistive device, the more difficult it is to address hearing loss. This is because the brain adapts over time to not hearing certain sounds. But don’t worry, getting hearing help at any time is better than never! The brain is designed to work with the devices you use to relearn how to hear.
Myth: People with hearing loss always know.
- The truth: Hear Net said that hearing loss can develop so gradually that people do not always recognize they are not hearing everything. An audiologist can test your hearing and help you take the necessary steps to address any hearing loss concerns.
Myth: Hearing loss only happens to seniors.
- The truth: AARP reported that 40 percent of Americans experiencing hearing loss are under the age of 60. So no matter your age, it is always important to get your ears checked.
As always, it is important to maintain and address all areas of your health. If you think you are experiencing hearing loss or want to explore the latest hearing aid devices, meet with your health care professional to get started! Doctors have the background and knowledge base to assist in all steps needed to help hearing loss. And if you are a new hearing aid wearer, talk with your doctor about daily maintenance, as that has a strong effect on the capabilities of your device.
