Hearing loss: are there advantages to a quieter world?
People with hearing loss have a choice: hearing the ‘sounds of silence’ or putting up with a noisy world
It’s true. Some people with hearing loss prefer the ‘sounds of silence’.
The world is a noisy place. Dogs barking. Planes overhead. Music played too loud.
And who doesn’t want a bit of peace and quiet occasionally?
For some, a gradual loss of hearing means they are removed from annoying sounds that interfere with a peaceful life.
But there is a serious downside.
Your relationships can suffer
Feeling left out of conversations is frustrating and upsetting for many people. Hearing their grandchildren speak about their day at school or sharing stories with friends can be uplifting.
Being unable to join in on conversations creates a vicious circle.
Hearing loss increases isolation
As you miss out on hearing parts of the conversation, you tend to withdraw. You may become frustrated – and so might others around you. Many people retreat into themselves and avoid going out at all. This increases the isolation and likelihood that you’ll be able to enjoy the company of those you love.
Hearing loss can make work-life difficult
If you’re still in the workforce, missing out on important information from colleagues and clients can affect your ability to do your job well. People can interpret your behaviour as a lack of attention or interest. It can lead to strained relationships as you and others fail to connect.
A 2006 Access Economics study showed that hearing loss caused productivity losses of $12.8 billion, or $3,566 per person with hearing loss. Most of this cost was due to
reduced employment of people with hearing loss ($9.3 billion).
Hearing loss can affect your health
As they retreat into their world of silence, many people become isolated. This has a serious impact on both their physical and mental well-being.
According to health experts, hearing loss is associated with many health issues, including accelerated cognitive decline, depression, increased risk of dementia, poorer balance, falls, hospitalisations, and early mortality.
The same Access Economics study mentioned above, also found that the value of the lost wellbeing was estimated to be $17.4 billion in 2017. This represents 52% of the total costs attributed to hearing loss.
Better hearing is possible
Our advice is: you don’t have to accept a life of isolation.
While we’re told that “hearing loss is just part of the normal ageing process”, it’s important to remain active and part of your community.
Getting the right advice and the right solutions to your hearing loss is best for your overall health and happiness.
Find out more – call us today for a free appointment
The team at Smart Hearing Solutions welcome people with hearing issues to come in – and bring their family members or friends – to talk about how best to make sure they’re not missing out on those important conversations. For a free appointment, call Heather or Leeanne on 1300 017 732.