March 3rd is World Hearing Day and you can participate by scheduling an appointment for a hearing test!
Organized by the World Health Organization (WHO), this international campaign is all about raising awareness about hearing loss and the scope of treatment that is available to transform hearing health. Hearing loss is one of the most common health conditions people experience, and it’s actually twice as common as diabetes or cancer but it still remains undertreated. Untreated hearing loss can have multifaceted effects on everyday life, health, and wellness by straining communication as well as relationships. This World Hearing Day is a great reminder to prioritize your hearing health by getting it evaluated.
Scope of Untreated Hearing Loss
Though hearing loss is a pervasive health condition, it is widely undertreated. In fact, only a third of people who could benefit from treatment, actually receive it. Studies show that hearing loss tends to be ignored and deprioritized. This includes a recent study conducted by the American- Speech -Language -Hearing-Association (ASHA). Researchers surveyed over 2,000 adults and found that:
- More than 51% of all adults reported having hearing problems, but only 11% have sought treatment.
- More than 78% of those with hearing problems have experienced them for 1 or more years. Over 35% have had trouble for 5 or more years.
- 2 in 10 adults have had a hearing test in the past 5 years, compared with 6 in 10 who have had their vision tested.
These findings show that experiencing hearing challenges is common and more people ignore them then address them. Untreated hearing loss can take a toll on communication which is an essential way we navigate everyday life. This can impact relationships, social life, work, and health in major ways.
Acknowledging the Reality of Hearing Loss
It takes an average of 7 years for people to address their hearing loss symptoms. It can be tough to acknowledge changes to your health and to prioritize care for health challenges. There are also many misconceptions about hearing loss that often cause people to delay treatment. This includes that it only impacts older adults and that it can be cured. But hearing loss is a medical condition that impacts people of all ages and one that is often permanent. Delaying treatment can actually worsen impairment and the transition into better hearing health.
It is important to know that there is a wide range of hearing healthcare services, resources, and solutions that are invested in transforming your hearing health. There are effective treatment options that not only improve hearing but also communication. Though acknowledging hearing loss can be hard, better health and an active life that you can be fully present in is on the other side.
Treatment & What to Expect
Treating hearing loss starts with getting your hearing tested by a hearing healthcare provider. Hearing tests involve a painless and noninvasive process that measures hearing capacities in both ears. The most common hearing test is known as pure tone audiometry testing. This involves hearing headphones in a soundproof room or booth. Sounds at different pitches and frequencies will be played and you will be asked to indicate what you can hear by raising your hand or pressing a button.
Your results will be captured in real time and will show the softest sounds you are able to hear and the sounds that are more challenging for you to detect. This identifies any hearing loss and the degree of impairment in each ear. Once your hearing needs are established, your hearing healthcare provider is able to tailor treatment to meet those needs. Hearing aids are the most common way hearing loss is treated. These electronic devices are savvier and more innovative than ever before. OFfering a range of styles, features, and technologies that support hearing health in everyday environments.
Celebrate World Hearing Day by Scheduling Hearing Test
World Hearing Day is the perfect reminder to schedule a hearing test which is a major step towards treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation. We look forward to supporting your hearing health journey and connecting you with the solutions that can help you live an active and full life.