October is celebrated as Audiology Awareness Month—a time to highlight the importance of hearing health and encourage people to seek treatment for hearing loss. If you’ve noticed signs of hearing loss or have been living with it for a while, this month is an ideal opportunity to take that first step toward improved hearing. Let’s explore some of the benefits of hearing aids and practical steps you can take to prioritize your hearing health.
Why Treating Hearing Loss Matters
Addressing hearing loss with the help of hearing aids can offer life-changing benefits, including:
- Improved cognitive health. Research by Johns Hopkins found that untreated hearing loss is linked to an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. However, hearing aids have been shown to reduce this risk by nearly 50% over three years for adults at a higher risk.
- Strengthened relationships. Difficulty hearing can strain conversations and relationships, leading to frustration and misunderstandings. Hearing aids can bridge the gap and help you fully engage with friends and family.
- Increased safety. Hearing loss makes it harder to hear crucial safety information like sirens, fire alarms and people shouting “DUCK!” as an errant frisbee heads your way in Watson Lake Park. Hearing aids help keep you secure by amplifying these essential safety sounds.
Steps to Better Hearing This Month
Ready to take control of your hearing health? Start by:
- Scheduling a hearing test. If you haven’t had a hearing test yet, book one this month. A professional hearing assessment will identify the type and extent of your hearing loss and guide your treatment plan.
- Picking your hearing aids. After diagnosing your hearing loss, your provider will help you find the right hearing aids for your needs, from behind-the-ear devices to invisible in-ear models.
- Acclimating to your hearing aids. It may take time to get used to wearing new hearing aids, but regular use will help your brain adjust to new sounds, making conversations and daily interactions easier and more enjoyable.
- Sharing your news. Beginning hearing loss treatment is an exciting step forward. Share your experience with loved ones and encourage them to get their hearing checked, too!
Nearly 20% of the global population lives with hearing loss, and there’s no better time to invest in hearing health than during Audiology Awareness Month. Contact Prescott Ear, Nose, Throat & Allergy to schedule a hearing evaluation and begin your journey today.