MDNews - Minnesota

++++++++++++++++++ + + ++++++++++++++++++ AUDIOLOGY +++ +++ Untreated Hearing Loss H The Consequences of ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON DEAFNESS AND OTHER COMMUNICATION DISORDERS, 36 MILLION AMERICAN ADULTS REPORT SOME DEGREE OF HEARING LOSS. ALTHOUGH HEARING LOSS REMAINS PROBLEMATIC FOR MANY, 80% OF ALL CASES GO UNTREATED. EARING LOSS IS the third leading chronic condition among older Americans and, left untreated, costs the U.S. economy billions of dollars each year. Whether people choose to forgo hearing aids due to embar- rassment, financial reasons or the belief that their hearing will improve, negative financial, physical and social consequences commonly follow. Although hearing loss affects older adults at a higher rate, there are more than 5 million people ages 18 to 64 suffering from hearing loss. For younger people, the repercussions of untreated hearing loss can have a lasting impact on their progression of speech, interpersonal skills and future educational path. "Untreated hearing loss dramatically impacts people's emotional, physical and social health," says Paula Schwartz, Au.D., with Audiology Concepts, Inc. "Although hearing loss is not life threatening, it is life-altering." Social Implications A study conducted by the National Council on Aging surveyed 2,300 people ages 50 and older and 2,000 family members to gauge the effects of untreated hearing loss and hearing aid use. The study showed that when a family member struggling with hearing loss began using a hearing aid, fellow family members consistently noted improve- ments. The hearing aid user developed better relationships with his or her family members, improved his or her social life, and gained independence. Those who didn't use hearing aids reported less social interaction and more episodes of depression and irritability. The most common excuse for not wearing a hearing aid was attributed to denial that the respondent's hearing loss was signifi cant enough to require help. Health and Income According to the National Academy on an Aging Society, 39% of people who suffer from hearing loss say they are in excellent or very good health, compared to 68% of those without hearing loss. "Hearing loss can lead to high blood pressure, depression and other problems, but it can also be the underlying symptom of a much bigger medical problem," says Dr. Schwartz. "Physicians should be treating the whole patient and not overlook hearing." A survey conducted by the Better Hearing Institute also concluded that people with untreated hearing loss make less money than those who utilize hear- ing aids. Although people with optimal hearing make more money than those who have treated or untreated hearing loss, those with untreated hearing loss often experience the largest reductions in income. "People who suffer from hearing loss may not realize that they are being overlooked for promotions or raises," says Dr. Schwartz. "It's sad because although they may be qualifi ed, a manager may find him or her to be too disengaged or socially inept to move up within the company. Treatment for a patient's hearing loss changes the course of his or her life." For more information about hearing solu- tions, visit www.audiologyconcepts.com. n

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