As an industry, the number of people who decide to address their hearing loss versus the number of people who have hearing challenges is significant.
Tragically, putting off treatment often leads to an isolated lifestyle and frustrated relationships, but untreated hearing loss can also lead to negative mental health consequences, like depression and anxiety, and serious physical health conditions, like cognitive decline and balance disorders.
Although we regularly draw attention to and promote the importance of regular hearing tests and early detection, many still ignore their hearing challenges, so we’re going to let people just like you encourage you to act.
We called on several of our patients, asking them to share how they came to realize that they had put off getting help long enough and decided to take action.
Hearing Loss Was Affecting Rich’s Job
As if it were yesterday, Rich recalls, “When attending Michigan State University, 1970 through 1972, I went to the Audio Department for testing. My test results showed I had a response curve that looked like a ‘W’ across the frequency range.”
Nevertheless, life went on and it wasn’t until 2003 that Rich got hearing aids, following an important work meeting. “I had to obtain them because, upon returning from Europe and in a Ford Plant Meeting, I missed hearing what I was supposed to be answering questions about.
“I was advised to get my hearing evaluated—so I did. And I have been wearing them ever since.”
Rich has been very happy with the care received from PHC Tennessee. “They are very empathic, professional, and understanding of my needs and abilities. Have used them multiple times in the past three years and will continue to do so in the future!”
Rich encourages others to address their hearing challenges. “By all means get there and find out for yourself how they can help you hear properly again,” he concludes.
David Was Worried About the Stigma Associated With Hearing Aids
David admits, “Having the volume turned up loud on the TV and radio has not been pleasant.” And while he says his wife never complained, he knows “it bothered her.” He adds, “Plus I asked ‘What?’ a lot,” referring to life before hearing aids.
David says that prior to his appointment at PHC Tennessee he was worried about the stigma associated with hearing aids. “None of the people in my age group wore them,” he says.
During his appointment, David had a comprehensive hearing test, and he says his audiologist “taught me that not only would the hearing aid amplify sounds, but the sound of mumbling by others became clear.”
Now he enjoys “clearer sound, understanding others better, and hearing things I had not heard in years.”
He advises potential patients, “Suck it up, cupcake. Make life easier for yourself and others. After a while, even your BFL will get tired of hearing ‘What did you say?’”
An Anonymous Patient Was Afraid of Being Ridiculed for Wearing Hearing Aids
Finding out they would need hearing aids left A. distraught, “I had seen an old man with a hearing device that the box sat on his chest and wires ran to his ears. I started crying because I did not want to wear a hearing aid that the other kids could see and cause them to laugh at me.”
Hearing aids have drastically evolved since that time, and A. has had many pairs over the years. While happy with their audiologist, they decided to change to PHC Tennessee because “it was closer to home and had a very knowledgeable staff.”
Despite dreading hearing aids as a child, they are grateful for the hearing they now have. “I have had hearing aids since I was five years old. But without my hearing aids, it would be impossible for me to live a normal everyday life.
“Also, without my aids, I would not be able to be a kindergarten teacher.”
To those considering an appointment, A. advises, “If you are having trouble with understanding what people are saying around you, then your first step is a hearing test. The people at PHC are very knowledgeable and will go above and beyond to help you get hearing aids that are the best fit for you.”
Please Don’t Put Off Getting the Help You Need
Many of our patients will tell you that they wish they had taken care of their hearing challenges sooner rather than waiting. After getting the help they needed, they realized that the excuses they’d used to avoid addressing their hearing loss didn’t hold water.
We’ve helped thousands of people achieve better hearing over the years and very few of them have any regrets about their decision to seek treatment.
With a comprehensive hearing assessment at PHC Tennessee, you can be confident that your hearing health will receive the highest level of attention, all focused on maximizing your long-term hearing abilities.
Find out more or schedule an appointment by submitting the adjacent form.
