Associated Audiologists Blog

Mobility and communication are essential for healthy aging.^1,2 As an audiologist, I see first-hand the difference that diagnosing and treating hearing and balance problems make in the lives of my patients. Not only are these patients healthier, but they are happier, safer, and enjoy a better quality of life with greater independence.

Hearing loss and balance disorders are significant public health concerns that contribute to increased fall risk. In fact, falls are the leading cause of injury and injury-related deaths in the elderly.³ If left untreated, hearing loss can also lead to social isolation, depression, and an increased risk for cognitive decline, including dementia.^4,5

With family gatherings, work parties, special musicals and worship services, the holidays can be a frustrating time for someone with untreated hearing loss and those closest to them.

In fact, some individuals find it so difficult to interact with family and friends at this time of year, they decline social invitations. This can be isolating, and long-term participation restriction has been associated with depression and even dementia.

If you had a tooth with a painful cavity, you wouldn’t try to fill it yourself; you’d go to a dentist. Likewise, if your leg was broken, you wouldn’t try to set the fracture yourself. You’d go to a hospital emergency room where you’d expect to see an orthopedic surgeon or an emergency room physician skilled in setting fractures.

October is Audiology Awareness Month, a great time to bring awareness to what audiologists do, who we can help, and how.

First, what is an audiologist?

An audiologist is a degreed professional who specializes in the diagnosis and non-medical treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus and balance disorders.

With 2017 nearly in the rearview mirror, it’s a great time to take stock of your medical expenses and investigate your hearing health care options. As you do, consider these three questions:

There’s no argument that hearing aids can be a big budget item, but when compared to other consumer electronics, they are an important investment proven to impact job performance, quality of life and health. If you have hearing loss, they are something you should not live without. So let’s compare the expense of hearing aids to something most of us think we can’t do without, a smartphone.

Every day, we see patients at Associated Audiologists who have measurable hearing loss, but who may be hesitant to invest in the hearing aid technology they need to hear their best. What they may not consider is that the real cost of hearing loss goes far beyond the immediate price of the hearing aid technology or the audiologist’s evaluation.