Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/733794
HEARING LOSS CAN BE HARD ON YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES. YOU HEARD IT HERE FIRST. Hard of hearing? Call 715.717.6885 to make an appointment with one of our audiologists. 'Beg Your PARDON ? ' Latest and Greatest "We live in a world where technology is ever improving and hearing aids are no exception," says Shawna Lee, AuD, audiologist at Prevea Audiology. "It used to be that hearing aids all came in one color and a few shapes, but now there is something for everyone." Some of the most notable improvements are found in the: • Style—Hearing aids come in various sizes and shapes for a comfortable and low profile fit. • Color—Hearing aids can now match nearly every skin tone and can even be clear. • Connectivity—Many hearing aids come with Bluetooth to allow users to connect directly to phones, televisions, and even other hearing aids. WHILE THE HEARING Loss Association of America reports 48 million Americans experience some degree of hearing loss, the truth is, far more people may suffer. Relationships are adversely affected when one person is living with untreated hearing loss. Living like this can impact children, friends, colleagues and — most notably — spouses and partners. Communication is key, and the loss of hearing can directly impede the couple's ability to communicate well. In fact, one study found that divorce rates were four times greater than the population norm for people living with severe hearing loss. Fortunately, there are ways to work around this barrier and continue to communicate effectively. GET HELP "For the majority of cases, a certified audiologist can provide a solution for hearing loss," says Shawna Lee, AuD, audiologist at Prevea Audiology. "But one of the biggest barriers preventing people from seeking help is the denial that there is a problem to start with. Overcoming this mind-set is the first step toward a better quality of life." KEEP REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS Loved ones should put themselves in their partner's shoes. Even with hearing aids, hearing may not be perfect. While it may be annoying to have to repeat yourself, it's often more upsetting to be the one who has to ask people to repeat themselves. Remaining patient and understanding can go a long way. TRY TEAMWORK Hearing loss can cause embarrassment for those who suffer from it. They may be left out of a conversation, or respond inappropriately to a question. This can quickly lead to built- up frustration and anxiety. Partners can help each other out during conversations with larger groups and cover for each other to reduce the risk of humiliation or confusion. 1 4 I N S P I R I N G H E A LT H