Hearing aids are the most common treatment for hearing loss.. These devices are essential for millions of people living with hearing loss, allowing them to fully participate in daily life and help make it easier to hear in everyday settings.
Though hearing aids can transform your hearing health, there are still common misconceptions about hearing aids that can contribute to a delay in treatment. Here are some common myths about hearing aids that can cause people to ignore their hearing loss which can have significant effects on overall health and wellness.
Myth #1: Hearing aids are for older adults.
A common misconception about hearing aids is that they are meant for and only worn by older adults. While aging is one cause of hearing loss, there are several other causes that impact people of all ages who can benefit from hearing aids. This is highlighted by the following statistics:
- 40 million people, ages 20-69 have hearing loss.
- 3 of every 1,000 children in the U.S. are born with detectable hearing loss in one or both ears.
- 15% of children and young teens, ages 6-19, have some degree of hearing loss.
- Nearly 20% of teenagers have a detectable hearing loss.
These statistics show that people of all ages have hearing loss and therefore can benefit from wearing hearing aids. Millions of people across the age spectrum do wear hearing aids which are designed to comfortably fit everyone.
Myth #2: All hearing aids are the same.
Just like hearing loss is not all the same, hearing aids are also not all the same. There is a wide range of hearing aids options, styles, sizes, colors etc. There are hearing aids that are designed to be worn behind the ear as well as hearing aid options that are worn in the ear. Within these two broad types of hearing aids, there are different styles and size options. Your hearing healthcare provider will recommend specific devices that are optimal for your individual hearing needs. This includes the type of hearing loss you have and the degree of impairment you are experiencing. There are hearing aids that are better suited for mild hearing loss and others that are optimal for more severe types of hearing loss.
Myth #3: Hearing aids are outdated and bulky devices.
Another common myth about hearing aids is that they are outdated devices that are far too noticeable. This picture that is common to have of hearing aids can deter people from seeking treatment because they do not want to wear hearing aids. But similar to most electronic devices today, hearing aids have experienced significant innovation over recent years. Today’s hearing aids are more innovative and savvy than ever before. They offer award winning designs that are sleek, making them more like wearable pieces of technology that seamlessly integrate into everyday life. They also have various features and technologies that deliver sharp sound quality and increase connectivity possibilities. This includes features like digital noise reduction, Bluetooth connectivity, tinnitus management, voice recognition and so much more. These advanced features maximize cutting edge technologies that allow hearing aids to do more, providing more comprehensive support in everyday environments.
Myth #4: Hearing aids are too expensive.
People tend to avoid treatment because of medical expenses. While this is a valid concern, there are ways you can navigate this. This includes establishing a budget and working with your hearing healthcare provider to stay within that budget. It is important to know that hearing aids come in a range of price points – depending on the type, model, and features offered. Your hearing healthcare provider can help you navigate more affordable options as well as let you know of any financial support that can be provided.
Myth #5: Hearing aids are only for severe hearing loss.
It is common for people to delay seeking hearing loss treatment until hearing loss is more severe. This not only worsens hearing impairment but also the health implications of untreated symptoms. Hearing aids can treat any and all degree of hearing loss – from the most mild forms to severe hearing loss. This means that even if you are experiencing the slightest degree of hearing loss, you should still get this treated and that there are hearing aids that are designed for this.
Learning more about hearing loss treatment and the range of hearing aid options can support you as you take action. Contact us today at (610) 747-1100 or click here to schedule an appointment for a hearing consultation and learn more about hearing aids.