The 10 biggest myths about hearing loss

Hearing loss might be a common condition, but it’s also a widely misunderstood one.

These simple misunderstanding can cause very real harm. Far too many in the Starts at 60 community will have a loved one who has held off from getting help when they need it.

If you (or somebody you know) are concerned about hearing loss, this can be quickly and easily addressed. Click here to book a free hearing test near you.   

I can’t afford hearing aids

Hearing aids can fetch a high price, but there are ways to make the process significantly easier through payment plans or government subsidies. If you are a pensioner, you may even be eligible for a free hearing aid. Click here to learn more about the government assistance that could help.

I would know if I were losing my sense of hearing

Hearing loss can be incredibly subtle and gradual. It is very common for somebody to live with it for years unaware, even as it begins to cause frustration and isolation.

Just as fading eyesight can put a strain on our eyes without us noticing, hearing loss can make day-to-day activities a little bit more exhausting on the brain. It may affect only a certain range of frequencies, meaning words will sound “normal”, but become harder to actually understand.

I can live normally without hearing aids

The consequences of letting hearing loss go without intervention can have an enormous impact on your health and wellbeing, and even put you in genuine danger. Studies have linked untreated hearing loss to increased risks of falls and brain atrophy. The social isolation of hearing loss is also believed to lead to depression and dementia – but hearing devices have been shown to drastically reduce this risk. 

Hearing loss is a sign of old age

Age-related hearing loss is a very real concern, but it’s just one of many potential reasons you could be experiencing it. It can arrive at any age, even childhood. In fact, the majority of reported cases are for those under 65.

Hearing aids will make me “look old”

Hearing technology has become incredibly discrete in recent years. In fact, certain inner-ear devices such as Lyric are completely invisible.

Those who have found help through hearing aids will tend to find that rather than feeling older, it can make them engage in more “youthful” attitudes and activities, freeing up new energy and comfort for a better quality of life.

Tinnitus is a temporary problem

Many cases of tinnitus are long-lasting, and there is no traditional “cure”. However, there are ways to ease the worst of it and make it easier to manage. An extended wear hearing device can offer a great deal of relief in the years ahead. Click here to learn more.

I don’t need to hear every noise

It is important to remember that hearing loss can affect a wide range of aspects of your health, from emotional wellbeing to a physical sense of balance. It isn’t just what you can and can’t hear in the present, but how intervention can keep you safer and happier in the future.

Hearing aids are too loud and finicky

Once upon a time, most hearing aids had volume control that needed to be adjusted to pick up quiet noises. The majority of today’s devices will automatically adjust to provide the amplification you need.

Hearing loss makes me a worse driver

Hearing loss doesn’t make somebody a danger on the road. It simply requires some conscious adjustments and some extra attention to detail; things that can benefit any driver. Click here for some helpful tips on how to drive safely with hearing loss.

My GP should pick it up hearing loss or tinnitus in a routine examination

Unless you specifically raise a concern of hearing loss with your doctor, there is no way to guarantee this will be considered. Be sure to raise this concern specifically, or arrange a free dedicated hearing test in your area.

Which of these myths have you found yourself believing over the years? Have you ever had trouble convincing a loved one to take the next step? Share your thoughts in the comments below.