Hearing loss is one of the most common ailments among older adults, yet only about one in five of those people will address this problem with hearing aids.
Since most hearing loss is can’t be reversed, it is crucial to avoid more damage as soon as possible. The ideal way to avoid advanced hearing loss (which can lead to dementia and cognitive decline) is to catch it early implement a treatment plan before it is noticeable.
What if I don’t know I have hearing loss?
Since hearing loss frequently accompanies aging, it is wise for all of us to be on the lookout for it as we get older. The best way to do that is with regular hearing testing at your audiologist’s office. Hearing evaluations are simple and only take a few minutes. Your audiologist can set you up with yearly appointments to track any changes in your hearing abilities. This testing can uncover hearing loss even before you notice it yourself. This gives you the best chance to address it before it begins to affect your life.
Hearing aids are a great tool to help you avoid severe hearing loss and the mental decline that can accompany it. Hearing aids can do this no matter how minimal your hearing loss is so you can prevent further damage.
Maintaining or restoring hearing capacity benefits us in more ways than one: from our independence to our communication, entertainment and social life.
Don’t Wait!
People tend to procrastinate the decision to get hearing aids, thinking it can wait or it’s too expensive. The first easy step is to make those yearly check-up appointments so you know where your hearing stands. American adults wait an average of 8-9 years to look into it, and during that time hearing can decline drastically. Make that appointment now so you can prevent the need for treatment later.
The cost of hearing aids are often out of pocket, but think of it as an investment: being pro-active now will pay off many times over in the future.
Just a few reasons to consider hearing aids now:
Hearing Can Affect Your Brain… and Your Heart!
Dementia, cognitive decline, and heart disease have all been correlated with hearing loss. Staying apprised of your hearing now can affect your whole body!
Additionally, because it affects communication and the ability to get around on our own, hearing loss can be isolating. If you are anxious and confused in public settings you are less likely to get out and socialize. This can bring on stress which may lead to depression, anxiety, or outbursts of anger.
There are Financial Benefits Too!
They may seem expensive, but there can be professional benefits to addressing hearing loss. We know that communication at work is important to professional interactions and job performance, so being at the top of your game is crucial!
Cognitive decline resulting from hearing loss is even worse job performance and communication. When you think of it this way, you can’t afford not to invest in hearing aids!
The first step to halting hearing loss and preventing further damage is to recognize your situation. Come in today for a hearing screening and formulate a strategy to train your brain to listen actively and effectively.
Diablo Hearing Services 2301 Camino Ramon, STE 106 San Ramon (925) 394-4646