Hearing loss is a serious issue that affects millions of people. Research clearly demonstrates the considerable effects of hearing loss on development as well as negative social, psychological, cognitive and health effects of untreated hearing loss.
I’d like to share some firsthand experience with the detrimental effects that hearing loss has on our health and our relationships.
Recently, the daughter of a patient I’ve known for many years came into my office. Her mother has benefitted from hearing aids for many years but had become ill and was in the hospital. During the turmoil, her hearing aids were misplaced. After a few days, her health recovered somewhat and she was allowed to come home. I visited her in her home to assess the situation and I did not recognize the woman I was talking to. Once so outgoing and talkative, she just sat in her chair and did not say much. If I did not know better, I would have thought she was so quiet because she was still tired and recovering, but really the biggest reason was that she could not hear. It was as though there were a thick wall between us. We fitted her with new hearing aids and the difference was immediate and remarkable. Suddenly that familiar flicker returned to her eyes and she was talking again – the wall came down. It was my pleasure to experience this.
There is no doubt that hearing loss is more than just a loss of one of our senses. Left untreated, it can cut us off from our friends and families because it is just too difficult to hear. If you or someone you love is having hearing problems, do not wait – call today to book your hearing assessment and take the first step toward restoring your hearing health!