If your loved one has hearing loss, it may be bothersome when they turn up the TV louder than is comfortable to you, avoid participating in social events and ask you to repeat yourself often. But the risks of hearing loss are far worse than mere inconvenience; untreated hearing loss is linked to accidents requiring hospitalization, depression and even dementia.
It may be hard to talk to your loved one about hearing loss if they are combative about it, so we’ve compiled some common excuses for delaying treatment and how to respond.
“I don’t have a hearing problem – everyone is just mumbling.”
It’s true that many people do mumble, and that it’s common to carry on a conversation from another room or while eating a meal, making it hard to follow along. But if it seems like everyone mumbles, the problem is likely with the person who can’t hear.
It’s a common misconception that early stages of hearing loss make it seem like sounds are quiet, but this is often not the case. If your loved one has early stages of hearing loss, speech probably sounds distorted, like people are mumbling, rather than sounding soft.
If your loved one tells you they can hear just fine, they probably mean that they can still hear the volume of your voice, but that they cannot make out the words well. Tell them this is a common sign of early hearing loss.
“Hearing aids will make me look old.”
Hearing loss affects people of all ages. It is estimated that around three out of every 1,000 babies are born with hearing loss – and for them, wearing hearing aids is a lifelong experience, not one that happens when they become a senior citizen.
While hearing aids worn by previous generations may have been large, clunky and obvious, today’s hearing devices are a whole other story. Many devices are available in a variety of colors and styles to blend in with hair and skin tones, and some are so small they are nearly invisible.
Even if the best model of hearing device for your loved one’s needs is noticeable, it is likely not as noticeable as saying “what?” every time someone speaks or being unable to follow a conversation.
“Hearing aids are too expensive.”
Audiologists take many factors into account when recommending hearing aids, including budget. Financing options and leasing programs are also available to help make the cost of these medical devices more affordable.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call ENT of Georgia today.