Over-50s at Risk of a Range of Adverse Effects of Untreated Hearing Loss

by | Feb 27, 2019 | Hearing Loss, Patient Resources

It’s a sad fact that many people with a hearing loss don’t do anything about it. Age-related hearing loss, sometimes known as presbycusis, is extremely common. However, fewer than one in three adults ages 70 and over, who could benefit from a hearing aid, actually use one. The fact is, most people with a hearing loss just don’t realize how much it can affect them.

 

Some facts and figures

Age-related hearing loss is a big problem in America. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), about 30% of American adults between 65 and 74 years old have some level of hearing loss. Of adults ages 75 and over, almost 50% are affected by a hearing loss. Those are huge numbers of people. Around 8.5% of adults ages 55-64 have some hearing loss, and it’s those people who have the most chance of treating their hearing loss and preventing it from affecting their lives in many different ways.

 

The effects of hearing loss

By allowing hearing loss to go untreated, people are putting themselves at risk in so many ways. It is scary how quickly a person with an untreated hearing loss can become isolated. It starts with an aversion to attending social events because they can’t follow the conversation; they might avoid family because they feel bad about not being able to hear the latest news. Romantic relationships are affected too — communication is key in a marriage, and if that is compromised because one or both people in the relationship have hearing problems, then things can quickly turn sour.

 

Hearing loss leads to other problems

Recent studies show that there are links between hearing loss and dementia. It is known that untreated hearing loss can cause cognitive issues. When the brain is putting all of its energy into trying to hear, there is less brain power left for other things such as memory and problem-solving. A very simple treatment — a hearing aid — can make a huge difference to the life of a person with a hearing loss.

 

Admitting a problem is half the battle

It can be hard to admit to having a hearing loss. Lots of people think hearing aids are just for old people, and they don’t see themselves as old. But it is important to change that view and instead focus on how much better life can be with a hearing aid. Being able to hear conversations clearly, hearing a grandchild’s laughter, and discussions with your loved one are all cherished moments you don’t want to miss.

Hearing aids have come a long way thanks to modern technology. They are much smaller and more versatile now, with some being almost invisible. They can even connect wirelessly to an iPhone or iPad, making talking on the phone and streaming music a great experience.

 

Schedule a hearing test

Anyone can benefit from coming to see us at Beltone Hearing for a free hearing test. We have 39 offices across Michigan and Ohio, every one of them offering a high standard of service. Beltone hearing aids have a rich history of helping Americans hear better, and we offer a range of patient benefits and care plans, with something to suit everyone. Call us at 1-888-691-3821 to request a free hearing screening today.

Do you know somebody that needs to see this? Why not share it?

Schedule A Free Hearing Test

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Categories