HEARING LOSS IN AMERICA

The facts about hearing loss in America.

Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions in the United States. More than 28 million Americans have some type of hearing problem and would benefit from using hearing aids. However, only about one in five of that number wear them regularly.

Hearing problems should not be ignored.

People often do not realize how their hearing loss negatively impacts their lives. Research indicates that most people think their hearing impairment is less severe than their spouses or other family members think it is. The time between onset of hearing loss and treatment in these patients is usually seven to ten years. In fact, only a fraction of patients with serious hearing impairment receive treatment, although advances in hearing aid technology mean that many could be helped before further physical or psychological deterioration takes place.

National survey conducted.

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) commissioned the Seniors Research Group to conduct a large-scale national survey of older Americans that would quantify the social, psychological and functional effects of hearing loss. The goal of the study was to assess the effects of hearing loss on quality of life and compare these effects for those who wear hearing aids and those who do not. The respondents in the survey included:

• Hearing aid users
• Hearing-impaired seniors who do not use hearing aids
• Spouse or family member of the hearing-impaired respondent

A total of 2,304 hearing-impaired people responded, and an additional 2,090 family members or close friends responded to a parallel questionnaire that asked about the hearing-impaired person. Some of the specific objectives for the survey included:

• Measure the effect of untreated hearing loss on quality of life among the hearing-impaired
• Compare perceptions of the hearing-impaired with family members
• Identify the reasons that those with hearing impairment do not seek treatment
• Assess the impact of using hearing aids on the quality of life of users

Results.

Older people with untreated hearing impairment suffer many negative effects. Compared to older hearing-impaired people who use hearing aids, those who do not use hearing aids are more likely to report sadness, depression, anxiety, paranoia, emotional turmoil, insecurity, isolation and reduced social activity.

On the other hand, seniors whose hearing loss is treated often report benefits, including better relationships with family and friends, improved self-confidence, improved mental health and greater independence. Early diagnosis of hearing impairment is key.

Unless hearing impairment is detected in its early stages, it may negatively impact psychological and physical well-being. Prompt detection of hearing loss, coupled with the appropriate intervention, is extremely important. Untreated hearing loss has been correlated with deterioration in physical, emotional, social and cognitive functioning. Early evaluation of hearing problems by a caring, highly trained audiologist or hearing instrument specialist can ensure the best possible outcome.

Because of the pervasiveness and social consequences of hearing loss, we recommend routine hearing screenings. These include written clinical history-taking and physical examination, clinical techniques and patient questionnaires. The following questions can help to determine if the patient should be referred for an audiological examination:

• Do you have difficulty hearing when someone whispers?
• Do you find it difficult to follow conversation in a crowded room?
• Do you have ringing in your ears?

Conclusion.

New hearing technology means that hearing impairment is often treatable, especially if caught before further deterioration occurs. Research shows, and experts agree, that early management of hearing impairment provides the best possible outcome in terms of psychological, cognitive and physical functioning for the patient.

Echo Hearing Systems & Audiology offers complete hearing care for adults. Our master’s degree-level and doctorate-level audiologists and hearing instrument specialists have over 25 years of clinical experience and are trusted by over 5,000 area residents. Echo Hearing Systems & Audiology offers your patients complete hearing assessments, a huge selection of hearing instruments, assistive listening devices, ear protection and more all with the friendly, one-on-one care they want and deserve.

Equally important, at Echo Hearing Systems & Audiology we make ourselves available to you, the referring physician, should you have any questions or concerns about your patients’ hearing health needs. If you have any questions about our comprehensive capabilities, please call our office nearest you. We encourage, welcome and appreciate your referrals.