Many people know that their hearing has deteriorated but don’t seek help. It may be that they don’t want to admit they have a problem, or they’re embarrassed by what they see as a weakness, or think that they can “get by” without using a hearing aid. Unfortunately, too many people wait years, even decades, to address the effects of hearing loss before seeking help.
Time and again, research confirms the detrimental effects of hearing loss on development as well as negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects of untreated hearing loss. Each can have far-reaching implications that 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.
Studies have linked untreated hearing loss effects to:
- reduced earning power and job performance
- irritability and anger
- fatigue, stress and tension
- avoidance or withdrawal from family and friends
- loneliness and depression
- higher risk to personal safety
- impaired memory and
- reduced ability to learn new tasks
- diminished overall health
Hearing loss is not just an effect of old age. It can strike any age group at any time, even children. In children, even a mild hearing loss could bring challenges to learning, developing speech and advancing the social skills necessary to develop self-esteem to succeed in school and in life.
Our goal is to help educate readers about hearing loss and promote the importance of prevention and treatment. In this column, you will find basic information about hearing loss, including advances in diagnosis and treatment and resources for medical care and/or financial assistance.
If you think you or a loved one suffers from hearing loss, don’t wait another day. Visit a hearing healthcare professional and take the first step toward a world of better hearing.
Kendall P. Varney is a licensed clinical audiologist with more than 25 years of experience. If you have questions about hearing loss, please call 904-259-2046.