- “I do not have a hearing problem”
Many people object to getting a hearing aid because they may not realize they have a hearing problem. Hearing loss is usually gradual and often imperceptible to the person suffering an auditory problem. In fact, only 20 percent of people who might benefit from treatment actually seek help, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.
- “My hearing problem is not that bad yet”
The average person waits more than ten years after learning he has hearing loss to get his first hearing aid. Most wait until they can no longer effectively communicate, even in optimal listening environments.
- “I don’t need help”
Most people want to remain independent and some view hearing aids as a sign of losing that independence. Instead of depending on technology to help them hear, ironically, your hard-of-hearing friend or family member ends up relying on you to be their ears.
- “I’m too young”
Many think that wearing a hearing aid makes them look old. Statistically speaking, however, people begin to lose their hearing in their 30s and 40s.
- “I’m too old”
Some think that hearing aids are too ineffective and cumbersome for older adults. The truth is that hearing aids make a difference at any age and that technology has made hearing aids easier to use than ever before.
- “I can’t afford a hearing aid”
The cost of a hearing aid depends largely on the number of features it offers. There are several low-cost hearing aids available to meet every budget.
- “Hearing aids do not work”
Hearing aids have come a long way since the hearing aids used in the 20th century, which would whistle and buzz as the user turned it up and down to filter out background noise.
- “Hearing aids are a big hassle”
Many of today’s hearing aids contain microprocessors that automatically filter noise, adjust volume, and improve sound quality and clarity.
- “Hearing aids are ugly”
Old hearing aids were bulky and quite unattractive. Fortunately, technology has helped end the era of the “big beige banana.” Today’s hearing aids are tiny and worn deep in the ear, making them nearly invisible.
- “Hearing loss is no big deal”
Hearing loss affects more than just the ability to watch television or engage in conversation – losing your ability to hear can negatively affects your physical, social and psychological well being, according to the Better Hearing Institute. People with hearing loss also experience a faster decline in thinking skills as they age, according to a 2013 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, in comparison with those with normal hearing.