Debunking the myths surrounding hearing loss and hearing aids!

In recognition of World hearing Day, at the beginning of March, where the focus is to make hearing accessible to all, we thought we would highlight some common misconceptions surrounding hearing loss and hearing aids, then share the facts. We want to give people the correct information so that they have the confidence to address their hearing issues. 

Myth

Hearing loss is just for older people

Fact

Hearing loss can affect anybody of any age. Factors which can contribute to hearing loss can happen at any age and include; illness, genetic inheritance and exposure to loud noise. In addition, wearing hearing protection when exposed to high levels of noise will help to reduce the risk of hearing loss from noise exposure. 

Myth

Hearing loss doesn’t need addressing straight away 

Fact

On average it takes a person 10 years to address their hearing loss. There can be a huge impact on a person’s overall well being and increased risk of developing dementia. Social isolation is common with people avoiding certain situations until they find themselves completely withdrawing from the people and things they love. Additionally, It is much easier to treat hearing loss early on so there really is no need to delay. 

Myth

You would know if you had hearing loss

Fact

Hearing loss develops gradually and it can take a while for a person to realise they have it. The higher frequencies tend to be lost first which make soft, high pitched sounds difficult to distinguish. Signs of hearing loss include:

• Having to turn the TV up louder than others would like
• Asking people to repeat themselves
• Struggling to follow conversation in busy areas
• Struggling to determine where sound is coming from

Myth

Hearing loss always results in hearing aids

Fact

Whilst hearing aids will help with those suffering irreversible hearing loss, there are some instances where sudden hearing loss can be reversed. An example of this is compacted ear wax. Once the wax is safely removed from the ear, the hearing should go back to what it was before. Illness affecting the ear can also cause a temporary hearing loss and once treated should restore hearing. That is why it is important to address any hearing loss straight away so that the appropriate treatment can be administered. 

Myth

Hearing aids are big and bulky

Fact

Advanced technology allows hearing aids to be made very small and discreet. There are even hearing aids which sit inside the ear canal and go totally unnoticed. Today’s hearing aids are made not only for purpose but also with comfort and invisibility in mind. What’s more, they come in a variety of colours so they can be matched to hair or glasses and go even more unnoticed. Their small, lightweight build makes them incredibly comfortable, so much so in fact that a lot of people forget they are even wearing them!

Myth

Hearing aids just amplify all sounds

Fact

Due to clever technology, hearing aids can reduce background noise and only amplify the sounds needed, allowing for a comfortable listening experience. The effective positioning of microphones gives better directional focus leading to less listening effort. Modern hearing aids are able to reduce wind and touch noise so that where ever the listener is, they can feel part of the conversation. Furthermore, with the ability to connect to a mobile phone, the wearer can even adjust settings through an app giving ultimate control.

Myth

Hearing aids will restore hearing to normal levels

Fact

Hearing aids cannot reverse hearing loss however they can greatly improve a persons quality of life. They will provide the wearer the ability to hear better and communicate more easily. 71% of hearing aid users wished they had got them sooner.