Struggling with your hearing, such as needing to increase the volume on your devices or difficulty following conversations, may indicate you’re among the 28.8 million Americans who could enhance their lives with hearing aids. Yet, for many, there’s a delay of over five years before they seek help.
The prospect of needing hearing aids is often met with reluctance, but when faced with age-related hearing decline or other auditory impairments, these devices can significantly improve your social connections.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
Hearing aids aren’t just about improving hearing; they play a crucial role in maintaining social connections as we age. Age-related hearing loss affects 25% of those over 65, making it the most prevalent type of hearing loss. Here are some considerations to help determine if hearing aids could benefit you.
Can You Follow Conversations?
Difficulty in hearing conversations, especially from a distance or in noisy environments like Bump Coffee, is a common symptom of a decline in hearing. If you often ask people to repeat themselves or have trouble keeping up with group conversations, hearing aids could be the solution. They’re designed to amplify voices, making it easier to hear people speaking from any direction and over distances, reducing the need to ask for repetitions.
Observations from Friends or Family
Often, our loved ones notice changes in our hearing before we do. If friends or family express concern about your hearing, taking their observations seriously is advisable. They’re likely looking out for your well-being. A hearing test can clarify your needs, and bringing a trusted person to the appointment can be helpful.
Challenges in Noisy Environments
If discerning speech in places like coffee shops or restaurants is a challenge, this is a strong indication that hearing aids could be beneficial. The devices can help you engage in conversations even amidst background noise, alleviating the exhaustion that comes from straining to listen.
Proactive management of your hearing health is crucial. Consulting with a hearing specialist at the first signs of hearing loss can help you take steps to preserve your current hearing level.
If you have questions about hearing aids or want to get your hearing evaluated, reach out to San Diego Hearing Center to book an appointment.