Many people think that only older adults experience hearing loss. While this issue is certainly more common among seniors, it can impact individuals of all ages. According to the NIDCD, hearing loss is most prevalent in the 60 to 69 age group but also affects 30 million individuals age 12 and older, including two percent of those ages 45 to 54. In addition, the Hearing Health Foundation reports that one in five teens shows signs of hearing loss in at least one ear, often because of using personal audio devices at an unsafe volume.
Some people think that if they had a hearing problem, it would have been recognized by their doctor by now. However, many doctors do not routinely screen for hearing loss, so it typically goes undiagnosed when people do not report their symptoms to health care providers.
One of the most pervasive hearing aid myths is that these devices are difficult to use and don’t work well. Although it can take some time to get used to hearing aids, over time, most users of these devices report improved quality of life and a better ability to communicate. For example, some people find that their voice sounds louder, but this sensation usually diminishes over time. Keep in mind that your brain is processing new sounds you have not been able to hear well in many years. Often, patients take about 60 days to adapt to the dramatic increase in sensory information.
Although hearing aids were once large, bulky, and uncomfortable, new technology makes it possible to use a small, nearly invisible hearing aid designed for your specific anatomy. Feedback noises, the feeling of pressure, and annoying whistling sounds are usually associated with an incorrect fit, which can easily be corrected by your audiologist.
While hearing aids do make a big difference in communication ability, they do not restore perfect hearing. Many people mistakenly think that hearing aids correct your hearing the same way that glasses can restore perfect vision. In fact, fine-tuning and regular use helps your hearing improve over time when you use a hearing aid as recommended by your audiologist.
Another common myth is that wearing just one hearing aid will improve your hearing sufficiently. In fact, auditory processing requires input from both ears to be effective.