It’s time to overcome the stigma of hearing loss

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If left unaddressed, hearing issues can have negative effect on overall health

Why are people so resistant to getting hearing aids?

Untreated hearing loss can lead to a host of other health issues, including a greater chance of dementia, and yet it can take those who notice hearing loss up to seven years on average to address their need for assistance.

“I think there’s a stigma around hearing aids and I believe it’s still there,” HearingLife chief audiologist Jillian Price says.

“There is some vanity there. It can be seen as a sign that you’re aging, your body is breaking down, and therefore you’re older.”

While hearing aids and hearing loss have traditionally been associated with aging, the age of those seeking hearing solutions is getting younger.

“I do think that things are changing. I do see a younger age group of those who are in the range of 40 to 60 years old exhibiting signs of hearing loss,” Price says.

“Hearing loss can happen at any point and it’s not just a seniors issue.”

Hearing damage from loud work environments, heavy machinery, music and high volumes and more can all contribute to requiring hearing assistance earlier.

Early intervention for hearing loss is key. The cognitive strain required to struggle to hear and follow conversations can have a negative effect on our overall health.

“Waiting to get hearing help does nobody any good. If you think you’re doing yourself any favours by waiting, you’re not,” Price says.

Some of the signs of hearing loss include difficulty following conversations or what people are saying, difficulty to locate sounds, and requiring the volume on the television or music to be overly high.

Not sure how your hearing is? Hearing Life offers free hearing tests.

With hearing centres across Canada, HearingLife can help you address your hearing loss and find the solution that meets your needs. Get the personalized help you need to live your best life.

“So many people are pleasantly surprised by how great it is to actually hear everything again,” Price says.

“You don’t realize what you’re missing until you try.”

To find a hearing centre near you and book a free hearing test today, visit http://www.hearinglife.ca.

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