Research shows that on average it takes a person with a hearing loss up to 7 years to recognise and do something about it. Recognising and then acknowledging that there may be a decline in yours or someone you knows hearing can be quite a confronting realisation for a number of reasons. Whatever these reasons, it is important to help the individual understand the possible implications it is having on their lives and those around them. An Audiologist is often an ideal and useful person to assist with this.

If you do know someone who is showing any of the above signs, the first step is to have their hearing assessed. A change in hearing can occur for any number of reasons and may or may not require any further assistance. It is recommended that people at least have an idea of what their hearing is currently like so that if there are any significant or sudden changes in the future there is an audiogram (results of a hearing assessment) to refer back to.

Medical implications of not treating hearing loss

It is vital to keep the auditory cortex (the hearing part of the brain) stimulated as research shows that those with a hearing loss who don’t do anything about it are more inclined to experience issues with their memory as the brain begins to use higher order cognitive functions to hear that would normally be used for storing and recalling memories. Additionally withdrawal from social situations due to poor hearing can lead to depression.