There are numerous misconceptions when it comes to hearing loss. Though hearing loss impacts over 48 million people and is one of the most pervasive health issues that people live with today, it is widely under-recognized as a serious medical condition. Various fictions about hearing loss often contribute to delaying treatment which can worsen hearing loss and the symptoms that have significant effects on everyday life. Deconstructing common myths about hearing loss can increase your understanding of it and also support early intervention which can protect your hearing health and wellness. 

Fiction: only older adults are impacted by hearing loss. 

Fact: there are multiple causes of hearing loss which can impact people of all ages. 

Though aging is one cause of hearing loss, it isn’t the only cause. People often think that hearing loss only affects older adults. But two-thirds of those with hearing loss are younger than age 64 and almost 15% of school-age children (ages 6-19) have some degree of hearing loss. Other causes of hearing loss include exposure to loud noise, head injuries, inner ear disorders etc. which impact people of all ages. 

The World Health Organization estimates that 1.1 billion children and young adults are currently at increased risk of developing hearing loss due to loud noise exposure. This data highlights that people of all ages do experience hearing loss.

Fiction: hearing loss is not fatal so it isn’t too serious of a health issue. 

Fact: hearing loss can have significant effects including increasing health risks like cognitive decline.  

It is common to underestimate the impact and seriousness of hearing loss. It is important to know that hearing is connected to how we live and navigate everyday life. It is critical to communication, relationships, social engagement, work life etc. So when hearing is impaired, it can strain these facets of life. Extensive research also shows that hearing loss can increase the risk of various health issues. This includes cognitive decline adn associated conditions like Alzheimer’s, accidental injuries, falls, and depressive symptoms. Additionally, untreated hearing loss can strain communication and relationships. These effects can take a toll on health adn wellness. 

Fiction: I can still hear so my hearing is fine. 

Fact: hearing loss exists on a spectrum adn untreated symptoms can worsen impairment. 

Another common misconception about hearing loss is that if you can still hear then your hearing health is fine. But it is important to know that hearing loss exists on a spectrum from mild to profound. The longer symptoms remain untreated, the worse hearing loss can become. Also, you may experience symptoms that you are unaware of. Hearing loss typically occurs gradually so symptoms can remain unknown for quite some time. Hearing also adjusts so you may think your hearing is fine but you may actually not be hearing sounds that you once were able to hear – birds chirping, cars driving by, the hum of the microwave etc. It is important to intervene as early as possible when you still have some hearing capacity remaining. 

Fiction: talking louder solves the problem. 

Fact: projecting one’s voice can further distort sound and make it harder to hear. 

People often assume that if you just speak a little louder, you’ll be able to hear. But projecting your voice can actually further distort and muffle sound, making it even harder to hear. People experience hearing loss differently and they can have a harder time hearing specific sounds at different pitches. So increasing volume isn’t actually an effective strategy. 

Fiction: hearing aids are outdated devices. 

Fact: today’s hearing aids are innovative pieces of wearable technology. 

People often have an outdated image of hearing aids as big and bulky devices that they don’t want to wear. But similar to most electronic devices today, hearing aids have experienced significant innovation. Today’s hearing aids are more innovative than ever before. Using cutting edge technology, hearing aids offer a range of styles and features that enhance sound quality and support hearing health in everyday environments. Hearing aids also offer award winning designs and colors that you can choose from to meet your aesthetic preferences.  

Prioritize Your Hearing Health Today

Having a greater understanding of hearing loss highlights the importance of prioritizing your hearing health. You can do this by scheduling an appointment for a hearing evaluation. Contact us today!