Hearing loss often develops gradually; thus, so many people simply ignore the cues or adapt to the loss without actually realizing it. However; identifying and correcting your hearing loss early on can drastically improve your quality of life, protect your health and keep you engaged with others.
Early intervention provides better communication with those who are important to you. Hearing loss can interfere with relationships with friends and family members. Utilizing hearing aids or other assistive listening devices can improve relationships and reduce stress on everyone. People can maintain strong relationships and continue to participate in fun social activities.
Early treatment also supports your brain health. It is now very well known that untreated hearing loss leads to memory loss, cognitive decline and dementia. When the brain constantly struggles to process incomplete audio signals it must work harder… often at the expense of memory and thinking ability. Using hearing aids can lessen this work load and help to keep the brain healthy and energized.
Another huge advantage of correcting your hearing loss early is safety. Hearing is vital for our personal protection. From hearing sirens and warnings, to awareness of approaching cars or even having someone shouting out for help. Correcting hearing loss can reduce the risk of falls and accidents.
Falling right in line with safety and protection is ‘emotional wellbeing’. People with untreated hearing loss often have feelings of isolation, depression and thus; frustration. Correcting hearing loss improves mood, confidence and self-esteem.
Correcting hearing loss early can help to preserve you hearing ability. The longer your auditory system goes without stimulation the harder it can be to adapt to hearing aids later. Adapting to hearing devices early helps to keep the nerve pathways active…and this help to improve the success and satisfaction of your treatment plan.
Technological advances in Artificial Intelligence and neuroprocessors have made hearing aids more effective and discreet than ever before. Today’s devices offer wireless streaming, smart phone integration, and rechargeable batteries all in a sleek nearly invisible design. Hearing aids are now viewed as a cool piece of technology for the active generation… instead of something that you had to get when you “got old”. I have personally been testing hearing and fitting hearing instruments for over 45 years.. it has been wonderful to watch the transformation throughout the years. Patients are starting younger and are excited to be able to achieve better hearing. The stigma that once surrounded hearing aids is quickly disappearing.
Addressing hearing loss early offers life-changing benefits- from sharper thinking, stronger relationships, improved safety and better overall health. That being said; if you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss…DON’T WAIT!! Seek out a qualified Hearing Health Provider and start the journey to better hearing. Remember… To Hear Better Is To Live Better!! Need help? Have Questions? Give us a call: (863) 385-3497
By: Roseann B. Kiefer, B.A., BC-HIS