Ask the Audiologist Question
Posted by Alex on October 11, 2010 under Ask The Audiologist Q&A, Hearing Loss, Prevention | 
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Christine R writes:
What if someone feels or knows they have a hearing loss but they choose not to treat it? Or what if they feel a loved one has a hearing loss but doesn’t address it? What are the consequences?
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Christine,
As the third most chronic health affliction in the US, it is sadly one of the most often neglected. Many people recognize that their hearing has changed but are reluctant to seek help. What many of us don’t realize is that impact that hearing loss can have on quality of life not only for the individual, but for everyone who is in contact with him or her.
According to the Better Hearing Institute, “Studies have untreated hearing loss to:
- irritability, negativism and anger
- fatigue, tension, stress and depression
- avoidance or withdrawal from social situations
- social rejection and loneliness
- reduced alertness and increased risk to personal safety
- impaired memory and ability to learn new tasks
- reduced job performance and earning power
- diminished psychological and overall health
These effects go well beyond hearing alone. In fact, those who have difficulty hearing can experience such distorted and incomplete communication that it seriously impacts their professional and personal lives, at times leading to isolation and withdrawal.
The good news is that 95% of those individuals with hearing loss can be treated with hearing aids and other assistive devices. Although there is no way to restore normal hearing, advancements in technology have dramatically improved patient satisfaction and ultimately quality of life for all those who with hearing loss.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions,
Alex
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