Hearing aids enhance the lives of people with hearing loss. They help in regaining communication and enable them to engage with their surroundings. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions surrounding these devices. This article addresses and debunks common myths about hearing aids, providing clarity to help people make well-informed decisions regarding their hearing.
Myth: Hearing Aids Make a Person Appear Old
Reality: Modern hearing aids have evolved significantly. They are now small and discreet, designed to fit inside the ear. With many options, one can easily find a hearing aid that suits their preferences and remains practically invisible to others.
Myth: Only Older People Experience Hearing Loss
Reality: Hearing loss is not exclusive to older people; it can affect people of all ages. Surprisingly, about 1 in 5 individuals aged 12 or older have hearing loss that hinders their communication abilities. Sixty-five percent of people with hearing loss are under the age of 65. Thus, regardless of a person’s age, hearing loss can impact their life.
Myth: Wearing a Single Hearing Aid Is Sufficient
Reality: One’s ability to hear is optimized when both ears are engaged. Binaural (two-eared) hearing aids provide superior hearing outcomes by aiding sound localization and enhancing comprehension in noisy settings. They also help reinforce brain connections for language and learning, which is vital for effective communication. In simple terms, most people hear better with two hearing aids instead of just one.
Myth: Buying Hearing Aids Online Saves Money and Time
Reality: Hearing aids are medical devices, and purchasing them online without professional assistance is not recommended. An audiologist will assist in selecting the right hearing aid for the person’s needs. They will:
– Conduct a comprehensive hearing evaluation
– Help in selecting the right hearing aid
– Provide fitting services
– Offer usage instructions
– Ensure one has access to repair and support
Myth: Hearing Aids Can Cure Hearing Loss
Reality: Similar to how prescription eyeglasses cannot “cure” myopia, hearing aids cannot cure hearing loss. However, hearing aids significantly enhance hearing and listening abilities. While they don’t fix the root cause, they significantly improve one’s quality of life by enabling better communication.
