5 life-changing reasons to stop hiding your hearing loss
Published: 8/22/2023 4:44:30 AM
Could you be missing any of the sounds you love?
Cicadas in summer… backyard waterfights... dad singing in the shower.
These are the sounds that connect us to our world. They have the power to transport us to places deep within our memory or make us laugh at unexpected moments. They are the sounds of the people we hold dearest, the sounds that make us happy.
However, many people hesitate when it comes to getting their hearing tested. There are many reasons for this. For some, taking the step to visit a audiologist or get a hearing aid seems too daunting. But finding a solution for your hearing loss will reconnect you to the sounds you love and can dramatically improve your quality of life. Here are five reasons to act now:
Hearing aids can help
Often, the biggest obstacle standing in the way of a hearing solution is the stigma around hearing aids. Nobody wants to wear a big, clunky device that draws everyone’s attention. But like your mobile phone or TV, technology is always improving, adding features and removing bulk. Most hearing aids are discreet, with some almost invisible once they’re on.
Improve your mental and physical health
If you’ve stopped taking part in your normal social and physical activities, untreated hearing loss may contribute to a deterioration of your overall health. When you can’t hear the conversations and world around you, it’s natural to feel isolated and start withdrawing. Hearing loss also affects your memory and concentration levels. Acting sooner rather than later will assist to improve your mental and physical health.
Keep yourself (and others) out of danger
When it’s difficult to hear alarms, announcements and instructions, you put yourself at constant risk. If you live alone without a hearing aid or other devices, you’re likely to miss the phone ringing or a doorbell. When you’re out and about, it’s important to hear announcements, like evacuations, or other dangers like an oncoming vehicle.
Get back to doing the things you love
It’s common to avoid social situations and group activities because you’re embarrassed about having to ask people to repeat themselves. You may stop doing things you love, like listening to music or watching movies because you can’t hear them. Treating your hearing loss helps you get back to communicating with friends and family as normal. An audiologist can help you to find a solution that suits your everyday needs, so it can be tailored to your job, hobbies or lifestyle.
Reconnect with your friends and family
Hearing Australia audiologist Janette Thorburn says clients that have hidden or ignored hearing loss for years report a huge increase in the quality of their lives, as well as the lives of their families and loved ones.
“I had one daughter burst into tears when she relayed the joy of hearing her father have an in-depth conversation with his grandchild for the very first time and then another woman who burst into tears because it was the first time in 20 years that she’d been able to communicate easily with her husband. Hearing devices can change people’s lives”
Don’t wait. Speak to one of our hearing professionals today or pop into any centre for a free* 15-minute hearing check, and rediscover the sounds you love. Find a hearing centre.
If your ready for a full hearing assessment, take this referral form to your GP for them to sign. Then bring it along to your appointment.
* Only 15 minute hearing checks are free. Other services may attract charges/fees or may be subsidised for those eligible under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program, to which conditions apply. A hearing check is a screening that helps identify people that may have hearing loss.
