Every year in May, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) organizes and celebrates National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, a time to discuss communication, communication disorders and the professionals who treat them. We at San Diego Hearing Center are proud and excited to join in with National Speech-Language-Hearing Month and discuss the vital importance of hearing health and hearing health professionals.
Hearing Loss Is a Communication Disorder
Your hearing isn’t just your ability to hear the birds singing (which is, of course, important). Hearing is connected to our ability to make meaningful social connections and communicate effectively with the people around us. If the two-way street of communication suffers a breakdown, it can lead to strained relationships, loneliness and diminished self-confidence.
According to this study, only one in five people who have noticed symptoms of hearing loss seek help, some waiting ten years or more to do so. That same study also outlines a multitude of reasons why intervening early is so important, including negative impacts on speech, language, social, behavioral and academic or professional outcomes, as well as overall quality of life. That’s why we’re so passionate about encouraging you to seek help from a hearing health professional if you notice signs of hearing loss.
Why Audiologists Are Important
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month is also about recognizing the role of specialists and medical professionals who provide life-altering treatment for communication disorders. Audiologists are in this category. Hearing loss can make you feel disconnected from your loved ones and the world around you, but audiologists are here to help.
Audiologists’ services go beyond just giving you hearing aids. We offer professional, personalized services with the goal of restoring your ability to connect and communicate. This includes:
- Comprehensive hearing evaluations
- Complete diagnosis
- Personalized hearing protection strategies
- Professional guidance on hearing devices
- Counseling
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month Is the Perfect Time for a Hearing Test
If you’ve been neglecting your hearing health for any reason, use National Speech-Language-Hearing Month as the perfect opportunity to begin. If you’ve noticed symptoms of hearing loss, then it’s time to begin treatment. And if you don’t think you have any symptoms of hearing loss, it’s still wise to get your hearing checked every few years. This helps you establish your hearing baseline and monitor for changes over time.
The first step in all of this is a hearing test. Schedule one today at our office. Call San Diego Hearing Center today to get on the calendar!