My husband resists hearing aids. What can I do?

Resistance to wearing hearing aids is common.  Many people have excuses for neglecting their hearing.  Some worry about looking old and others feel the financial investment isn’t worth it.  Few people realize the cost of not using hearing aids.  Talk to him about the negative effects of ignoring his hearing problem.   

                        

When someone cannot hear what is said or miss hears information, it’s easy to see the impact on communication.  Isolation and withdrawal from social situations is also easily seen.  Not so apparent are the affects the brain.  Not using hearing aids reduces stimulation of the hearing pathways in the brain.  This can cause a reduction in the brain’s ability to recall words and the ability to learn new tasks. Words become mumbled and with long periods of reduced stimulation, the mumbling can become permanent. People with hearing loss have to work harder to hear and remember what was heard. 

Untreated hearing loss can also have serious social and emotional affects.  A study by the National Council on Aging reported that adults 50 and older with hearing loss experience more stress, sadness, and depression.  They worry and are more anxious than those who use hearing aids. 

Other studies show that those who are working earn from $12,000-$24,000 less annual due to hearing loss.  They are less likely to be promoted and often seen as loaners.

Don't wait to get started.  Encourage him to have a trial with hearing aids.  Hopefully he will find they are inconspicuous, comfortable and work well.  Call now for an appointment.  

Life sounds great!  Enjoy every moment!

Jane Kukula, AuD
Paula Webster, MA
Advanced Audiology Concepts
8897 Mentor Ave
Mentor, Ohio 44060
440-205-8848
http://www.aacHEAR.org/

Reference and for more information go to: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/07/110718164026.htm