People can be aware that their hearing has deteriorated but are sometimes reluctant to seek help. Perhaps they don’t want to acknowledge the problem, are embarrassed by what they see as a weakness or believe that they can “get by.” Unfortunately, too many people wait years — even decades — before getting treatment.
Hearing loss is not just an ailment that comes with old age. It can strike at any time. For the very young, even a mild or moderate hearing loss can result in difficulties learning, developing speech and building the important interpersonal skills needed to foster self-esteem and success in school and life.
There are far-reaching implications regarding the negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects of untreated hearing loss. Studies have linked untreated hearing loss to irritability, negativism and anger; fatigue, tension, stress and depression; avoidance of or withdrawal from social situations; reduced alertness and increased risk to personal safety; impaired memory and ability to learn new tasks; reduced job performance and earning power; and diminished psychological and overall health.
Take care of yourself, and your family and friends, by getting a routine hearing evaluation.
