Hearing loss is extremely common; in fact, there are 48 million people in Oregon and throughout the country suffering from it right now. What’s even more surprising than this large number is the amount of these individuals that are not seeking help.
For most individuals with hearing loss, the use of a hearing aid can provide an enormous amount of benefits, more than simply improving your hearing. Below are the benefits of hearing aids many of our Portland area patients see when they decide to finally seek treatment for their hearing loss.
Improved General Health
Individuals who do not seek treatment for their hearing loss are at a higher risk of cognitive decline; they are also three times more likely to suffer physical injuries, such as falls.
Individuals who treat their hearing loss see an improvement in their balance and a decrease in their feelings of:
- Depression
- Anger
- Anxiety
Improved Professional Success
Suffering from untreated hearing loss can make It harder to concentrate, especially when communicating with others. This can lead to reduced job performance and less monetary compensation.
Individuals with hearing loss also find it hard to learn a new thing. A new study has confirmed that his may be caused by problems storing new information.
Improved Emotional Well-Being
Individuals who choose to treat their hearing loss are able to reenter the world on their own by overcoming their reliance of other and regaining their sense of control. This typically leads to reduced periods of social isolation as well are longer-lasting and healthier relationships.
Patients who treat their hearing loss have also been shown to have higher quality of life and self-esteem than those who do not seek treatment.
A study conducted by the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) helps illuminate the importance of hearing aids.
The study surveyed 2,000 patients with hearing loss. Of those individuals, 82 percent indicated they would recommend hearing aids to their friends and 70 percent reported an improved ability to communicate.
The study also concluded up to a third of patients saw improvements in their:
- Romance
- Sense of humor
- Mental health
- Emotional health
- Physical health
- Sense of safety
- Self-confidence
- Feelings about self
- Sense of independence
- Work relationships
Getting a hearing aid is a big step. It says that you are accepting that you have a problem and have taken the appropriate steps to find a solution. With this, you will be rewarded with a better quality of life and increased emotional and physical health. Contact your local Portland audiologist to start down the path toward better hearing today.
