Common Myths & Facts About Your Hearing

Myth: My hearing loss cannot be helped.
Fact: Many people with hearing loss in one ear, high frequency hearing loss, or nerve damage, may be told that they cannot be helped. This might have been true many years ago, but with modern advances in technology, nearly 95% of people with a hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids.

Myth: Hearing aids will restore my hearing to normal.
Fact: Just as their name suggests, these devices can only aid your hearing. They cannot restore normal hearing nor slow down the progression of nerve damage.

Myth: Hearing loss affects only "old people" and is merely a sign of old age.
Fact: Actually it is the reverse of what most people think. The majority (65%) of people with hearing loss are under the age of 65. Hearing loss is not just an ailment of old age. It can occur at any age, even childhood and is more prevalent than you realize.

Myth: "If I had a hearing problem, I would know about it."
Fact: Hearing loss due to aging can be so gradual that those affected often aren't even aware of the problem. Many people with hearing loss attribute their hearing difficulties to other people not speaking clearly enough.

Myth: Hearing aids are big and ugly and are uncomfortable to wear.
Fact: Your hearing loss is more visible than your hearing aids. Today's high tech devices are generally inconspicuous and very comfortable to wear. Digital technology is able to provide excellent sound quality and a more natural sound experience as well as comfort even in noisy environments.

Myth: Hearing aids are too expensive.
Fact: There is a wide range of devices available varying in price and sophistication. Your audiologist can help select the product that is most appropriate for you. The improved quality of life and relationships that a hearing device will enable make it one of the best investments you will make. The availability of government funding and medical plans make hearing aids within most people's reach.

Myth: Hearing aids are too expensive.
Fact: There is a wide range of devices available varying in price and sophistication. Your audiologist can help select the product that is most appropriate for you. The improved quality of life and relationships that a hearing device will enable make it one of the best investments you will make. The availability of government funding and medical plans make hearing aids within most people's reach.

Myth: My hearing loss is not bad enough to warrant a hearing aid.
Fact: Even a mild loss can impact the ability to interact with people comfortably and the quality of life. A thorough hearing test conducted by an audiologist will tell you whether a hearing aid would help you.

Research demonstrates that untreated hearing loss has far-reaching implications that go well beyond hearing alone. An audiologist can determine the exact nature and severity of any hearing loss, and suggest the necessary steps to improve hearing and communication.