Many people see advertisements for hearing aids, and their reaction is that “they hear fine” or “I won’t consider them as they make me look older”. This DENIAL is the major reason that people who need hearing devices do not get them.
Hearing Aids Offer More Than Just Better Hearing
Unfortunately, what most people don’t understand is that just hearing better is not the only reason to get hearing aids, as there are lots of reasons to get them that most people do not understand.
Shocking Industry Statistics
What is particularly interesting is that industry research has shown that only 20% of the people in the U.S. who would benefit from wearing hearing devices have them. There are some key reasons why, such as:
- They find the cost of the devices to be too expensive
- They are in a state of denial, indicating they hear “well enough”
- They do not want to take the time to visit an audiologist to get a hearing test
Signs You Might Need a Hearing Test
There are some very common signs that it would be advisable for an individual to get a hearing test. The most common of these are:
- They frequently use the word WHAT during conversations, as they are unable to understand what another person is saying
- They need to turn the television to a very high level to hear the programming, which can be very uncomfortable for the other people in the household
- The refrain from participating in group discussions, such as at a restaurant or gathering of friends or relatives
The Health Risks of Untreated Hearing Loss
Why, then is it important to one’s health to consider getting a hearing test, and hearing aids should the testing indicate a correctible hearing loss? There are several important reasons such as:
- Many research studies have shown that there is a significantly greater chance that a person with untreated hearing loss will get Alzheimer’s or dementia when compared to people of the same age who have purchased hearing aids
- Research has also found that untreated hearing loss can lead to depression. This is largely because they are unable to participate in group discussions, and therefore over time, they tend to withdraw from their environment.
- The research studies also have found that people with untreated hearing loss experience 47% more hospital visits than their peers who have corrected their hearing. One key reason for this is that people with untreated hearing loss tend to have significantly more falls than their peers.
- Not treating hearing loss can be a safety hazard as these people might not hear traffic signals, smoke detectors, or other similar warning signs.
- Not treating hearing loss can also result in a strain on relationships among friends, family or business colleagues. It can be difficult to enjoy socializing with someone who cannot carry on a conversation, and it could be a major negative in a business environment if you can not hear well enough to participate in a group conversation.
Take Charge of Your Hearing Health
Our health and well-being are probably the most important thing to almost everyone, as we recognize that we get only one time to go through this earth, and we strive to make it as good as possible.
Schedule Your Hearing Test in New York Today
So, do yourself a favor and get an annual hearing test. Unfortunately, less than 20% of primary care physicians ever address patient’s hearing, so it is up to us to take care of ourselves.
Fifth Avenue Hearing, at 9 East 62nd St would be an excellent place to get a hearing test in New York. Call 212 301 7779 and make an appointment with Dr. Rufina Yakubov. She has been helping discerning patients hear better for almost 15 years. This call may be the most important one you make this year.
