The Myths & Truths of Hearing Loss

The earth is flat. The sun revolves around the earth. It takes seven years for swallowed gum to pass through your digestive system. A tooth left in a glass of Coca-Cola will dissolve overnight. All of them myths, and all of them debunked. What about the myths and truths of hearing loss?

Myth #1: Hearing aids are for old people.

The Truth:

The stark reality is that hearing loss affects people of all ages. Consider the following:

• Results from the International Health Interview Survey show that hearing problems among Americans between ages 45 and 64 increased by 26% from 1971 to 1990. During that same period, hearing problems among the 18 to 44 age group increased by 17%.
• The Hearing Alliance of America, Inc. reported that 15% of recent college grads have as much or more hearing loss than their parents, which is no surpise given the hours that young people spend listening to iPods and MP3 players.

---

Myth #2: Wearing hearing aids will make a person look old.

The Truth:

Ironically, NOT wearing hearing aids may actually make a person look old.

If you frequently have to ask people to repeat themselves and if you make mistakes and say odd things because you are struggling and pretending to hear, you might actually look and seem older and more out of touch to those around you.

Fortunately, with a nearly invisible hearing aid from Miracle-Ear, your best qualities will show! To learn more about nearly invisible hearing aids, see Nearly Invisible Hearing Aids.

---

Myth #3: Only someone with a profound hearing loss needs hearing aids.

The Truth:

Everyone’s hearing loss and listening needs are different.

For example, a person who lives alone and rarely interacts with other people may be able to suffer through a moderate hearing loss, whereas an attorney or a college professor may be greatly hindered by even a mild hearing loss.

If you are someone whose livelihood depends on clear communication, not being able to discern the words people are speaking can have undesirable consequences. See The Impact of Untreated Hearing Loss.

---

Myth #4: If I did have a hearing loss, my doctor would have told me so.

The Truth:

Perhaps, but not necessarily.

Only 14% of physicians routinely check for hearing loss during a yearly physical. And even then, you might hear just fine in the doctor's office—where it's quiet. Most people with a hearing loss show no symptoms in a quiet environment. (Source: Better Hearing Institute)

---

Myth #5

NOTE: Safety representatives were on the set during this photo shoot to ensure the safety of the animal throughout production. They determined that this photograph met the Guidelines for the Safe Use of Animals in Visual Media established by Humane Treatment of Animals in Visual Media. As such, the photo was awarded the "No Animal Was Harmed” disclaimer. Nonetheless, we apologize to any dairy farmers out there who might find this image a bit disturbing...