Millions of people with hearing loss resist treating their condition, at least in part, because of the negative social stigma around hearing aids.
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, “among adults aged 70 and older with hearing loss who could benefit from hearing aids, fewer than one in three (30 percent) has ever used them. Even fewer adults aged 20 to 69 (approximately 16 percent) who could benefit from wearing hearing aids have ever used them.”
Let’s look at some of the stigma surrounding hearing aids and hearing loss, as well as why it’s so important to prioritize your hearing health.
Research on Hearing Aid and Hearing Loss Stigma
A study published in The Gerontologist wanted to “explore the dimensions of stigma associated by older adults and hearing loss.” To do this, they conducted several interviews with couples where one partner had untreated hearing loss over the course of a year.
The results of these interviews revealed that “perceived stigma emerged as influencing decision-making processes at multiple points along the experiential continuum of hearing loss, such as initial acceptance of hearing loss, whether to be tested, type of hearing aid selected, and when and where hearing aids were worn.”
The stigma was related to issues of ageism, vanity and changes in self-perception.
Challenging Stigmas Around Hearing Loss Treatment
Much of the stigma around hearing loss treatment and hearing aids is based on outdated or incorrect ideas. For example, today’s hearing aids are small and discreet, with some models fitting entirely in the ear canal, making them invisible to others.
Secondly, while people worry that hearing aids will make them look old or less capable, the reality is that constantly asking others to repeat themselves or frequently misunderstanding others due to untreated hearing loss is more likely to make you appear older or less independent.
Making Your Hearing Health a Priority
Treating your hearing loss with hearing aids or other assistive listening devices has numerous benefits and zero downsides.
Using hearing aids can:
- Increase your confidence when communicating with others
- Make social outings, like dinner at Black Sheep Bar & Grill, easier and more enjoyable
- Decrease feelings of anxiety and depression surrounding your hearing loss
- Improve your balance and make you less likely to experience falls
- Lower your risk of cognitive decline and dementia when compared to people with untreated hearing loss
To learn more or to schedule an appointment to have your hearing tested, call M.K. Larson Audiology today.
