Why Some People With a Hearing Loss Choose Not to Wear Hearing Aids

If you have an issue with your eyesight, there’s little doubt that you’ll make an appointment to see the optician. They’ll perform an eye test, give you a prescription, and you’ll find the right glasses to help you see more clearly. If you have problems with your hearing, however, it might be worth asking yourself if you’d immediately book yourself in for a hearing test. And, furthermore, whether, if the audiologist suggested hearing aids, you’d wear them.

That might be in part because hearing aids are associated with getting older, which can be seen as a disadvantage in a society that favours youth. Whatever your issue with hearing loss, however, it’s important to understand how hearing aids can improve everything - from your health, to social situations, to your overall wellbeing. In this article, we’ll look at the facts about hearing aids, in a bid to challenge the stigma that might be preventing you – or someone you know – from using these incredibly useful devices.

Hearing Loss is More Common Than You Might Think

In fact, around 28% of people aged between 16 and 60 in the UK have some form of hearing loss where hearing aids could help. And yet, in a recent Lancet dementia study, they reported that almost four-fifths of people experiencing hearing loss do not use hearing aids. It’s a such a shame, as those not getting support for their hearing loss (or not wearing their hearing aids) risk missing out in many areas of life. Friends and colleagues might not be aware that there is a problem, which can add another layer of complication and misunderstanding to the situation. That’s why it’s important that hearing loss is understood, and people experiencing problems feel they can talk openly about it with others.  

It’s Not Only the Over-60s Who Need Hearing Aids

One of the most pervasive myths surrounding hearing aids is that they are exclusively for older people. It’s a fact that hearing can deteriorate significantly as you get older. However, hearing loss knows no age limits, affecting individuals across generations. Being aware of how important it is to have a hearing test if you’re struggling to hear is key to getting the support you need, which might include wearing hearing aids, particularly in noisy situations.

Hearing Aids Shouldn’t be a Cause for Embarrassment

Hearing aids have come a long way from being big, beige and boring. Modern hearing aids come in various sleek designs, and often look very like earbuds you might listen to music with, or use for online meetings. They’re becoming increasingly discreet and comfortable, and have various user-friendly functions such as Bluetooth connectivity with your phone. You can even adjust the settings so the sound levels are compatible with the environment you’re in. It can be useful to think about hearing aids as empowering, rather than focusing on them as a visual sign of a condition that you need to hide. Sometimes all it takes is a slight reframing of our thoughts, to make us feel more positive about wearing hearing aids.

Hearing Aids Can be Worn Most of the Time

The idea that hearing aids should only be worn when absolutely necessary suggests they should only be treated as an emergency measure. If you only use them like this, conversations, especially in noisy places, might feel less than easy. You could be spending precious mental energy trying to decipher words and sounds. And when you think about the potential this can have on interactions, it’s clear that hearing aids should be seen as devices to wear as often as possible, so that you can get used to them and life can feel and sound better at all times.

Getting the Right Hearing Aids Can Improve Your Overall Wellbeing   

If you’ve considered using hearing aids (or already have them, but feel they’re not working for you, and are therefore reluctant to wear them) try thinking about visiting an audiologist. Their expertise can go a long way in helping you to find the right devices. Or, they can help to ensure you’re using your hearing aids correctly. Sometimes, something as simple as keeping your devices clean and charged can help improve their functionality, and make your life easier in situations that have become increasingly difficult. It’s possible then to see how finding the right hearing aids and getting them fitted properly can improve your overall wellbeing in so many ways.  

It Can Take Time to Adjust to the Idea of Wearing Hearing Aids

People have different experiences with hearing aids, but it’s fair to assume that most will have to mentally adjust to the idea of wearing hearing aids before they actually start wearing them. The stigma attached to hearing-aid use might be one of the main barriers to feeling confident. However, with time, the right guidance and expertise, wearing hearing aids can be seen as a wholly positive step towards a more fulfilling life.

An Audiologist Can Help You Choose the Right Hearing Aids

An experienced audiologist can support you with all areas of hearing loss, including advice on whether hearing aids could help you. They’ll also be able to guide you on choosing hearing aids, and they’ll be able to schedule in follow-up appointments to ensure that you’re always getting what you need for your type of hearing loss.  This personalised approach is rarely offered at high-street hearing aid suppliers.

Visiting Our London Audiology Clinic

To make an appointment with an audiologist, or for advice on hearing aids please call (020) 7244 4200 or make an appointment online.