Susan began her full time career with Welsch Hearing Aid Company in December, 1984 as the Office Manager. On March 5, 1985, she became a State Licensed Hearing Instrument Specialist. In 1994, she passed her National Board for Certification Examination.
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Hearing loss affects many people worldwide, yet there are lots of misunderstandings about it. As professionals, it’s crucial to clear up these misunderstandings and help people understand how they can take care of their hearing. There are many ways to prevent, find, and treat hearing loss early to help everyone have better hearing.
Misconception 1: “Only Older People Have Hearing Problems”
Some people think only older adults have trouble hearing. It’s true that hearing can change as we get older, but people of any age can have hearing issues. Recent studies show more young people are having trouble hearing because they’re around loud noises a lot, like at concerts, in their free time, or when using personal music players. It’s important to know that hearing loss isn’t just about getting older so that everyone, no matter their age, can take care of their hearing.
Advancements in Prevention
Many advancements are being made to help protect hearing in noisy places. There are special ear protectors and apps for phones that can check how much sound you’re around. This helps you take control of your hearing. We want to remind you to use ear protection in loud places to lower the chance of hearing loss because of loud sounds.
Misconception 2: “If I Can Hear, My Hearing Is Perfect”
Some think if they can hear, their hearing is great. But hearing loss can come in different levels, and even small changes can affect life a lot. It’s important to have hearing tests regularly, even if you think your hearing is fine. Finding problems early helps us do something about it sooner. The longer one waits to address their hearing problem, the poorer one’s understanding can get.
Early Detection and Intervention
Finding hearing issues early helps us fix them earlier and more effectively. It’s important to get regular hearing tests, especially if you’re around loud noises at work or play. These tests can find where the problem is and help make a plan to fix it. Plans can include things like hearing aids, cochlear implants, or special training.
Misconception 3: “Hearing Loss Is Only a Physical Problem”
Some think hearing loss is only about the ears, but it’s more than that. Recent studies show that hearing loss can be linked to problems with thinking and remembering. People with hearing problems might have trouble remembering things or have a bigger chance of having dementia. It’s important to think about both the body and the mind when it comes to hearing health.
Future Interventions
In the future, there might be new ways to help with hearing. Scientists are looking at things like gene therapy and new medicine that might help fix hearing problems. Even though these things are still being tested, they give hope to people with serious hearing issues.
Hearing Health During the Holidays
Holidays can be noisy with parties, music, and celebrations. Sometimes, it can be hard for people with hearing problems to join in and understand what’s happening. Getting a hearing test before the holidays can help. It lets you know if there are any issues and if you need hearing aids they will help you enjoy the holiday fun without missing out. Holiday time is a good time to Test Drive a pair of hearing aids.