Why do so many people delay in getting help for hearing loss?
Why do so many people delay in getting help for hearing loss?
Despite the clear benefits of seeing an audiologist when you realise your hearing isn’t what it used to be, many people resist taking the next step. Whether you need advice, treatment or a hearing test, avoidance is common. But why is this?
Let’s dive into the top reasons…
Stigma and self-perception
One of the biggest challenges is the supposed stigma associated with hearing aids. It’s thought that 20% of people who have been issued with hearing aids do not use them.
It’s normal to feel anxious that hearing loss is directly caused by ageing, and plenty of people with a hearing impairment tend to avoid sociable activities and conversations, causing a decline in mental health and self-confidence.
The truth is, connecting with others will keep your brain younger and optimise your enjoyment of life.
In a society that often glamorises youth, admitting that you need advice and treatment can feel like defeat, however, using hearing aids is solely focussed on enhancing your life, not restricting it.
Current hearing aids are stylish, sleek and extremely innovative.
They are a demonstration of how your life can be enhanced when you take the next steps, rather than a sign of decline.
Underestimating the Impact
How many times have you used the phrase ‘Well, my hearing isn’t that bad’? On average, sufferers will wait 7 years from the time. They’ve been identified with a hearing loss until they do something about it. During this time, isolation and health risks increase, as does difficulty communicating with loved ones.
Many underestimate the impact hearing loss can have on their lives. Although it is most commonly associated with ageing, many other factors can also have an adverse effect. Hearing impairments, without treatment, are directly linked to balance, communication and more serious health conditions such as dementia. It is vital not to ignore difficulties associated with hearing. It plays a key role in your enjoyment of life and fulfilment of everyday tasks.
Gradual Decline
Usually, hearing loss happens gradually, making it difficult to notice and easy to deny. Often people do not realise how much they are missing out on until it becomes significant, and by this time, more damage could already be done. Regular hearing checks can mitigate this and catch issues early on. It is never too soon to receive help and guidance on your hearing, particularly when you, or people around you, first notice issues.
Cost
Hearing aids and frequent check-ups can be expensive, and understandably, this can be a major factor in why people delay the process. However, the cost of not tackling hearing loss can be much higher, with missed conversations, a decline in communication and mental health, and even a reduced earning potential.
Although hearing aids and regular checkups may seem expensive, think of it as an investment in your social, emotional and professional well-being. Plus, support such as payment plans are often available, with Discretion Hearing offering a 30-day trial period on selected hearing aids and a 0% finance service.
Fear of Change
Adjusting to life with hearing aids can be daunting, and with any big change, there’s a breaking-in period by which your auditory system and brain get used to your hearing aids. Some people can be wary of this adjustment period, however, hearing aids of today are a far cry from older bulkier models.
They are comfortable, discreet and more effective, allowing for most people to acclimatise to the change fairly quickly, often leaving them wondering how they ever coped without them!
Avoiding seeking treatment for hearing loss is easily done given these factors, but the benefits of investing in your hearing far outweigh the drawbacks. Don’t let fear or misconception stop you from taking the first step to obtaining advice about hearing loss; avoidance can lead to more serious health problems, as well as thwart your connection with loved ones and the rest of society.
With improved hearing health, you can continue to enjoy life and engage in everyday activities. Embrace the change, it might be the best decision you make.