Ladies discussing how new hearing aids helped themIf you are currently struggling with untreated hearing loss, you know that it can be a frustrating and isolating experience. Whether you are in a social or professional situation, not being able to hear others properly affects your ability to be fully engaged in what’s going on around you.

First, know that you are not alone. Millions of Canadians cope with at least slight hearing loss, and it can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or profession.

Hearing loss among Canadian adults

The most recent Canadian Health Measures Survey found that 40 per cent of adults aged 20 to 79 had at least slight hearing loss in one or both ears, as measured by hearing tests.

While hearing loss is most prevalent among older Canadians, affecting 78 per cent of adults aged 60 to 79, it also affects 40 per cent of adults between the ages of 40 to 59 and 15 per cent of younger adults aged 20 to 39.

The statistics are undeniable. Hearing loss is an important health concern, and yet it often goes unrecognized and undertreated, which can lead to other concerns.

The often unspoken effects of hearing loss

Left untreated, hearing loss can have emotional and social effects that aren’t often discussed. These include frustration, embarrassment, outbursts of anger, low self-confidence, fatigue, social isolation and depression.

It can also lead to possible safety issues and mobility limitations, especially among older adults.

As we discuss in our blog post “The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Your Annual Income”, untreated hearing loss can even affect your current and future employment and earning potential.

Take action to address your hearing loss

Fortunately, hearing loss can be managed, and most of the emotional effects stemming from hearing loss can be resolved quickly once the hearing impairment is effectively treated.

There is no reason why you can’t live an active and fulfilling life with hearing loss. The sooner you take action to address it, the sooner you will be able to minimize the emotional and social effects and improve your quality of life.

As your first step, schedule a hearing evaluation with an audiologist to have your hearing tested. Capital City Audiology has been providing patients in the Edmonton area with innovative audiology solutions for more than 20 years.

To schedule an appointment, call or e-mail one of our two locations in Edmonton.