Did you know that 40 million Americans have hearing loss? This figure might surprise you, because many people shy away form talking about, or treating, their hearing loss. Sadly, 2 of every 3 people who need hearing aids never visit an audiologist, or take the first steps in treating their hearing loss.

The Stigma of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss has been called an invisible disability. Unlike having a broken arm, or using a wheelchair, no one can see at first glance that you’re struggling to hear. Many people think that admitting that they can’t hear very well anymore is proof that they’re getting older, and no one wants to admit that they’re not as young as they once were. Our society has a stigma against getting older, and we’re all willing to try the latest lotions to keep our skin wrinkle free, or the newest fashion trends to keep up with the kids. Hearing loss can be another sign of aging, and people choose to ignore their hearing rather than seeking treatment for their hearing loss.

The Cost of Untreated Hearing Loss

Hearing aids can be a big investment, and some people are reluctant to fork out the cash for hearing devices, thinking they can manage their hearing loss on their own. Sadly, hearing loss doesn’t go away if you ignore it, and avoiding treating hearing loss will cost far more than investing in hearing devices in the first place. While hearing aids can seem costly, the price of living with untreated hearing loss is far higher. When you’re not able to hear clearly, your relationships will suffer, and you’ll struggle to have meaningful conversations with the people you love the most. When you have hearing loss, you may choose to stay home rather than meeting friends for drinks in a crowded pub, and your social life will suffer. Those with untreated hearing loss are far more likely to face anxiety, stress, and depression.

Hearing loss can take a toll on your wallet as well. Those with hearing loss have a harder time keeping up in the workplace, might be overlooked for a promotion, and could even be fired. They also face a greater risk of injury, have higher overall medical costs, worse treatment outcomes, and are hospitalized far more than their hearing peers. Hearing loss has also been closely linked to more rapid cognitive decline, confusion, and frustration. Hearing loss also leads to higher rates of dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

The Issue with Over the Counter Hearing Aids

Due to the cost of hearing aids, some people choose to purchase over the counter hearing aids, or opt to order hearing aids online. These devices aren’t made to fit each unique ear, and this leads to feedback, poor sound quality, and frustration. People often give up on treating hearing loss after an experience with over the counter hearing aids, and don’t ever get their hearing tested by a professional, get custom fitting hearing devices, or have a hearing health specialist adjust the devices to match their unique hearing needs. These services aren’t included in the price of the over the counter devices, and no one wants that added cost.

There are some over the counter hearing aids that can be effective for adults with mild hearing loss. These devices could help you hear in noise, or if you sometimes have trouble following conversations. They’re not designed for those with moderate to severe hearing loss since you won’t have a comprehensive hearing test, or expert fitting or adjusting, which are extremely important if you’re going to be satisfied with your hearing devices. 

People who need prescription hearing aids but are just using over the counter personal sound amplification products are often uncomfortable when it comes to talking about or treating hearing loss. When the devices don’t work like they’re expecting them too, they shy away from seeking help, getting the devices adjusted or investing in a properly fitting pair of hearing aids.

Orange County Physicians’ Hearing Services

If you have hearing loss, don’t shy away from treating your hearing loss, but do the right thing for your hearing health and call us today at Orange Country Physicians’ Hearing Services to find out what a quality hearing device can do for you.