Nobody wants to hear from a loved one that they have hearing loss, even if deep down inside they already know they do. It can be frustrating when someone you care about doesn’t seek help for a problem, and it’s especially frustrating when that problem causes a strain on your relationship. Below are some common excuses people give for not seeking treatment for hearing loss and responses you can give to push them in the right direction.
“I don’t have hearing loss, people just need to stop mumbling.”
It’s true that people do tend to mumble, talk while chewing, start up a conversation from another room or fail to get the attention of the person they’re talking to before diving into a new topic. But if it seems like everyone is mumbling all the time, you probably have a hearing problem.
While most people think that the early stages of hearing loss make sounds seem very quiet, this is not always the case. For many people, speech is still audible at a comfortable volume but sounds distorted, giving the impression of mumbling. Even if you can hear someone’s voice, if you have trouble making out the words, you could have hearing loss.
“Hearing aids are for old people.”
Untrue. Approximately three out of every 1,000 babies are born with hearing loss. These people don’t wait to wear hearing aids until they’re old – it is a lifelong treatment.
Also, hearing devices are not nearly as clunky or obvious as they used to be. Today’s devices are small and sleek, and available in a variety of colors and styles to match your preference. Some are even invisible! Many are packed full of features like rechargeability, smartphone compatibility, automatic programming, Bluetooth connectivity and more.
“My hearing loss isn’t bad enough to warrant hearing aids.”
Even mild hearing loss can be improved with the use of hearing aids. In addition, mild hearing loss has a number of risks, including cognitive decline. One Johns Hopkins study found that people with mild untreated hearing loss are at twice the risk of developing dementia than those with normal hearing.
“Hearing aids are too expensive.”
Audiologists take many factors into account when making a hearing aid recommendation – including budget. In addition, there are many financing and leasing options available to make these essential medical devices more affordable.
For more information about the risks of untreated hearing loss or to schedule an appointment with an audiologist, call the experts at Houston Hearing Center today.
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