Dr. Leslie P. Soiles, Doctor of Audiology and Chief Audiologist, HearingLife
When people think about getting older, a common image that comes to mind is someone struggling to hear, asking others to repeat themselves or straining to catch parts of a conversation. Many think that wearing hearing aids makes a person look old, but the truth is that untreated hearing loss is what ages someone. It’s time to clear up this misconception so we can improve our day-to-day experiences and make the most of this exciting second stage of our lives.
About one-third of people have some level of hearing loss by the age of 65, and that number increases to two-thirds by age 75—yet not nearly as many people take action to address hearing loss. Why? It turns out that the slow progression of hearing loss, combined with societal perceptions and emotional challenges, plays a big role.
Hearing loss happens gradually, so people adapt without even realizing it. They might start lip-reading unconsciously, lean in closer to hear better, or attempt to control background noise. But there comes a point when these tricks just don’t cut it anymore. People start missing keywords in conversations, and, sometimes, family members notice and point it out. That’s usually when people realize they need help and decide to get their hearing checked.
So, why do people wait so long to get their hearing tested—and, in some cases, even longer to get treatment? It’s human nature to take the path of least resistance. If hearing is just a bit challenging, it’s easier to put off dealing with it. There are two ways to manage healthcare: reactively or proactively. Unfortunately, most people handle hearing loss reactively, waiting until it seriously affects their lives. But a proactive approach, like getting a baseline hearing test at 60, can make managing hearing health much easier.
Facing hearing loss can be emotionally tough. Many people associate it with getting older, and that realization can be a harsh reminder of aging. Losing one of your five senses is significant and emotional. I’ve had patients cry when they learn they have definitive hearing loss, feeling a deep sense of loss.
In my practice, I always try to address these fears and insecurities. First, I acknowledge that they’re not alone; many have sat in the same chair and faced the same feelings. I commend them for their bravery in seeking answers and facing the issue head-on. It’s important to emphasize that hearing loss is treatable, unlike many other health conditions. We have solutions that are cosmetically discrete, allowing individuals to manage their hearing loss privately if they wish.
Family and friends typically react with joy when someone addresses their hearing loss. Hearing loss affects not just the individual but their entire social circle. Conversations become more enjoyable, and the frustration or concern over miscommunication disappears. This relief is palpable, allowing relationships to flourish without the added strain of repeated misunderstandings.
Advancements in hearing aids have significantly changed perceptions. Modern hearing aids are so cosmetically discreet that they’re barely noticeable. When I show patients the options and let them see for themselves, they’re often delighted at how inconspicuous the devices are. Some patients even say they don’t care about the hearing aids’ appearance; they just want to hear their loved ones better. This shift in priority underscores the transformative impact of effective hearing aids.
The moment a patient experiences clarity in their hearing with aids is profound. I see it in their body language; they sit up straighter, their eyes widen with surprise, and sometimes there are tears or giggles. It’s like they’ve been transported back to a time when their hearing was better. This transformation is not just auditory; it’s also emotional and psychological. They no longer have to work hard to fill in the gaps or worry about being perceived as confused. They can be their true selves again, which significantly impacts how others perceive their age.
Encouraging patients to view hearing aids as tools for empowerment rather than signs of aging is crucial. Hearing aids are resources that close the gap caused by hearing loss, enabling individuals to live more fully and authentically. They facilitate better communication and improve the overall quality of life.
The journey of acceptance begins with that first appointment. At HearingLife, we provide complimentary hearing assessments to help educate patients about their current hearing situation and its implications. Once they understand their condition, they can connect the dots between the diagnosis and their real-life experiences. Offering appropriate solutions leads to acceptance, allowing individuals to move forward with confidence.
My advice is simple: address hearing loss sooner rather than later. Many patients are amazed by what they hear once they get hearing aids. You don’t realize what you’re missing until your hearing is restored. Early intervention can reconnect you with the world in ways you didn’t know you were missing, providing a richness to life that is invaluable. Don’t wait to regain this connection; embrace it and live your life to the fullest.
