Myths about Hearing Loss

Do you have hearing loss? You may have suspected so much for years without taking any action around it. Studies find that those who choose to address their hearing loss enjoy improved social interactions, improved sense of self, elevated mood, higher rates of physical activity, higher earning potential at work, and a lowered risk of cognitive decline. However, for those who suspect they have a hearing loss, they wait on average seven to ten years from the time they first suspect to take action regarding their loss. Many times, this inaction around hearing loss can be attributed to common misconceptions about hearing loss. If people were more informed, they might make better decisions earlier about their hearing health. To aid in the process, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common myths around hearing loss and the facts to provide you with the motivation to take action now.

Myth: Using hearing aids will make everything sound too loud.

Fact: Today’s hearing aids are programmed based on your latest hearing exam and will amplify only the sounds, tones, and pitches you need help to hear while allowing you to hear the remaining sounds with your existing hearing. Everyone’s hearing loss is slightly different, and that is why it’s important to choose an audiologist versus over-the-counter hearing aids to get the best fit and finely tuned amplification.

Myth: Buying hearing aids online or by mail saves me time and money.

Fact: Today, hearing aids are available over the counter, and while this may cut down on immediate cost, you miss out on custom programming and a proper fitting. Getting your hearing aids via a licensed audiologist means that we can explore your goals for better hearing and find a pair that suits your individual needs around lifestyle, diagnosis, fit, and more. Healthy hearing is an ongoing process, and we are here every step of the way.

Myth: Hearing aids will make me seem old

Fact: While hearing loss is most common for older adults, it’s a condition that can occur at any age. Addressing hearing loss as soon as possible will help you to stay more connected to the people and activities in your life at any age. Many people fear that hearing aids will make them seem old or disabled. In truth, wearing hearing aids is the first step towards living a more active life beyond this disability. In addition, hearing aids come in a wide range of styles—some so small that they are barely noticeable by most. Others come in a wide range of styles and designs, so you can integrate your hearing aids into your daily style and wear them proudly.

Myth: Hearing aids are just too expensive.

Fact: Hearing aids are an important investment in your overall health, and the cost of avoiding treatment is much more than the initial cost of hearing aids. While hearing aids, depending on the model and features, can range from $1,000 -$7,000, for those still in the workforce, not treating your hearing loss may affect your ability to earn. A study from the Better Hearing Institute found that people with untreated hearing loss suffered an annual loss in earnings which was $30,000 less annually than those with normal hearing or who wore hearing aids. In addition, those with untreated hearing loss had significantly higher chances of losing employment or staying unemployed.

Myth: Hearing aids will restore my hearing to normal.

Fact: Hearing loss in 90 percent of instances is an irreversible condition. While this can be alarming when first understood, the good news is that hearing aids can help amplify the sounds you’ve lost so you can live a life close to what it would be like with normal hearing.

Myth: I can hear in one ear, so I only need one hearing aid.

Fact: We hear with two ears for a reason. Two ears help our brain determine with greater accuracy the direction and locations of sounds around us. This inevitably helps us navigate spaces around us with greater accuracy, helping us stay safer every day. Many people suffer from greater hearing loss in one ear than another at first. However, single-sided hearing loss is rather rare. In most cases, the loss in one ear is just more noticeable. We are here to calibrate your hearing aids so both ears hear to their highest potential.

We are here to answer all your questions about hearing loss. To find out more, schedule your next hearing exam with us today.