Approximately 28.8 million U.S. adults could benefit from hearing aids. These small but powerful devices pick up and amplify essential speech and background noise to keep the wearer alert and ease communication stress. With all their benefits, it may surprise you to learn that only 16% of people aged 20 to 69 who need hearing aids use them.
A few common reasons people are hesitant to try and continue to wear these helpful devices include concerns about comfort, appearance and need. Let’s address these concerns to help you take the leap into hearing care.
Hearing Aid Comfort
If you have ever worn headphones for an extended period, you’re likely familiar with the soreness they can cause in and around the ear canal. Acclimating to hearing aids can result in a similar feeling. A few ways you can promote comfort with your new devices include:
- Start slow. Acclimating to hearing aids takes time. You may initially feel that noises are too loud and your devices grate on your ears. This will go away over time, but you can help minimize it by gradually extending the time you spend wearing your devices. Eventually, you’ll be able to wear your devices all day without discomfort.
- Clean them regularly. Hearing aids can accumulate wax, sweat and debris over time, leading to discomfort and increasing the likelihood of infection. You can improve comfort and stave off infection by cleaning your devices regularly.
Hearing Aid Appearance
The fear that hearing aids will make them look older is one of the biggest concerns patients have over wearing their devices. While hearing aids were once thought of as a sign of aging, that is no longer the case. People of all ages have hearing loss. Wearing hearing aids signifies that you are taking charge of your life and confidently embracing treatment.
Not only is the stigma diminishing, but hearing aid styles are also more varied than ever. Depending on your type of hearing loss, you can choose styles ranging from nearly imperceptible in-the-ear devices to larger behind-the-ear options. Whichever style best suits your needs, remember that hearing loss is normal and feel proud knowing you’re taking control of your life.
Hearing Aid Need
All cases of hearing loss are different. For some people, simple acts like ordering a latte from Anthem Coffee can be a communication nightmare, while others may only miss a word or phrase here and there. When your hearing loss is mild, it can feel like treatment isn’t worth the effort. However, it’s crucial to remember that even mild cases of hearing loss can cause mental strain, lead to social isolation and even damage your mental health. By starting treatment early, you can avoid these adverse side effects.
Don’t wait another moment to start your hearing aid journey. Contact Elevate Audiology today to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists.