Challenges come when you suffer a blow to one of your senses. When you experience hearing loss you might become disconcerted and afraid. You have heard different things about losing hearing, not all of them accurate. Educate yourself about the subject to learn the truth.

Myth: Hearing loss is an isolated problem.

Fact: According to the Australian Network of disability, 1 in 6 Australians suffer hearing loss. Over the age of 70, the number affected by hearing loss is 3 out of 4.  Majority of hearing loss is age related, so you are not alone.

Myth: Hearing aids are unaffordable

Fact: Not always. If you have health insurance, check your policy to see if there is any subsidy, as most providers will offer up to $2000 towards hearing devices.

If you are a pensioner or veteran, there is government funding for fully subsidised hearing services, including prescription of hearing aids.

Myth: You need to speak louder to a hearing impaired person.

Fact: Talking in a loud voice does not help someone with hearing loss understand you. Most hearing impaired persons watch your lips while you talk to help with their coherence. When you speak loudly, you over-exaggerate the forming of words making it difficult to follow your speech.

Myth: There is nothing you can do to prevent hearing loss.

Fact: There are several ways to help safeguard your hearing. Preventative measures include turning down music, wearing ear protection in noisy work environments and resting your ears for 24 hours following hours of loud noise exposure. Note, however, that some forms of hearing loss are caused by conditions you cannot control such as disease, genetics and accidents.

If you suspect a problem with your hearing, seek immediate professional help. Get a referral to a hearing loss specialist from your doctor. Taking immediate action often results in a better outcome. For more information about hearing issues, please contact us.