Hearing Aids
The Consequences of Untreated Hearing Loss
Many people are aware that their hearing has deteriorated but are reluctant to seek help. Unfortunately, too many wait years, even decades, before getting treatment. But research has demonstrated time and time again the considerable negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects of untreated hearing loss…with far-reaching implications that go well beyond hearing alone. In fact, those who have difficulty hearing can experience such distorted and incomplete communication that it seriously impacts their professional and personal lives, at times leading to isolation and withdrawal.
Studies have linked untreated hearing loss to:
- Irritability, negativism and anger
- Fatigue, tension, stress and depression
- Avoidance or withdrawal from social situations
- Social rejection and loneliness
- Reduced alertness and increased risk to personal safety
- Impaired memory and ability to learn new tasks
- Reduced job performance and earning power
- Demised psychological and overall health
Hearing loss is not just an ailment of old age. It can strike at any time and any age, even childhood. If you think you or a loved one suffers from hearing loss, don’t delay another day.
The Prevalence of Hearing Loss in the U.S. (MarkeTrak 2004)
- 3 in 10 people over age 60 have hearing loss
- 1 in 6 baby boomers (ages 41-59), or 14.6% have a hearing problem
- 1 in 14 Generations Xers (ages 29-40), or 7.4%, already have hearing loss
- At least 1.4 million children (18 or younger) have hearing problems
- It is estimated that 3 in 1,000 infants are born with serious to profound hearing loss