Maybe it’s your father after a lifetime working in a noisy industrial setting. It might be your wife, who over time has begun listening to music at much louder volumes. It can be any of your loved ones, at any age who has started to lose their hearing, and as communication becomes a challenge and words get repeated more often, it can be easy to get frustrated on both sides. Fortunately, the team of qualified professionals at The Hearing Center of Dublin ENT, can assist you and your loved one with hearing loss. With some of the best technology from the world’s leading manufacturers available, assessment and treatment of hearing loss is a simple process. What can prove more challenging, however, is first tackling the stigma that comes with receiving assistance for hearing loss.
Dealing With The Stigma of Hearing Aids
Many people are concerned with the appearance of weakness and frailty, so much so, that they would forego utilities like hearing aids that could help them live the independent life they wish to have. According to this article from HealthyHearing.com, many people feel that agreeing to hearing aids will make them appear feeble or weak. More interestingly, a study published in The Hearing Review, which examined the effects of stigma on hearing loss came to a conclusion that “In order to live well with hearing loss, one must recognize and accept a hearing loss.” The first step in living the best life you can live with hearing loss is first to acknowledge the need for assistance. From there, every step afterward can be approached as seeking a solution to a problem. Let your loved one know that it is okay to accept the need for assistance. It doesn’t make them any less of a functioning adult and can only enhance their lives.
“Hearing Aids Are Too Big…”
None of us are immune to a little bit of vanity, and part of the stigma of hearing aids comes with their size. No one wants to walk around with a massive piece of plastic on their ears, but many never have to. Depending on the severity of your hearing loss, you may be able to get smaller hearing aids that can go partially or entirely inside the ear canal and are hardly noticeable by others. In-The-Canal hearing aids are not only less visible than larger models, but they’re also custom-fitted to your ear. Our experienced team of audiologists can work with you and your family to find the device right for you. Hearing aids not only open up a world of sound, but their bulky ancestors are long gone too.
“Hearing Aids Are Too Expensive…”
When it comes to receiving the hearing care that many people need, many families avoid seeking the care out due to financial concern. Some hearing aids can indeed cost more than $1,000 a device, but there are also ways to receive assistance in paying for them. A Medicare Advantage recipient may be able to obtain coverage for their hearing care, and eligible veterans can receive free hearing aids from the VA. If you’re below a certain income level, you can seek assistance from various programs and foundations. Organizations such as the Starkey Hearing Foundation have assisted people with hearing problems for many years. With all the resources at your fingertips, the investment into living an independent life doesn’t need to be a burden carried alone.
When Hearing Loss Goes Untreated
When our family members are struggling with hearing loss, the struggle to hear and communicate is a beast all in itself. When that hearing loss is untreated, it can lead to various forms of mental deterioration. Older adults with hearing loss are at higher risk of developing dementia, anxiety, and other psychological issues. Living with untreated hearing loss means your brain has to work harder to interpret the sounds you hear. Getting the proper care for your hearing doesn’t just make hearing more comfortable, but can preserve the memory, focus, and comprehension of the mind. We provide hearing aids that can maintain a high quality of life and prevent the inevitable effects of untreated hearing loss.
Dublin Hearing Center
The Hearing Center of Dublin ENT can offer hearing aids that can improve the quality of life for anyone coping with hearing loss. Our brilliant team of competent audiologists will tailor a service to your family’s unique situation. In the first appointment, your ears and hearing health will be evaluated to find out what exactly is going on and most importantly, what treatment is needed. Fight the stigma of hearing loss, and let us give you the help you need. To learn more, contact us today or request a callback and we’ll be in touch shortly.
