5 Hearing Loss Myths Debunked

August 6, 2024

Hearing loss is surrounded by many myths and misconceptions that can affect how people understand and manage this condition. Here are some common things we hear floating around:

Myth: Hearing loss only affects older adults. 

Fact: Hearing loss can occur at any age. While it's more common in older adults due to age-related changes, many younger people also experience hearing loss due to factors like genetics, noise exposure, and infections.

Myth: Hearing aids will restore hearing to normal. 

Fact: Hearing aids amplify sound and enhance speech clarity but don't restore hearing to its original state. They can significantly improve hearing and quality of life, but they may not be able to fully replicate natural hearing. 

Technology is always evolving and some hearing aid manufacturers focus a lot of resources on ‘natural’ hearing. See GN ReSound’s philosophy on organic hearing here. 

Myth: Hearing loss is only about being unable to hear sounds. 

Fact: Hearing loss can also affect the ability to understand speech, particularly in noisy environments. It's not just about volume but also about clarity and discrimination of sounds. In fact, the most common experience voiced by people beginning to struggle with hearing loss is, “I know people are talking, I just can’t make out what they are saying.”

Myth: Hearing aids are only for people who are completely deaf. 

Fact: Hearing aids are designed for people with varying degrees of hearing loss, not just those who are completely deaf. They can help individuals with mild to severe hearing loss. Like anything, early intervention is important to help avoid or minimize the impacts of hearing loss. 

Myth: Hearing loss can be cured with medication or surgery. 

Fact: While some types of hearing loss can be treated with medication or surgery, many types, especially age-related hearing loss and sensorineural hearing loss, are permanent and managed through hearing aids or other devices. The results of a full, diagnostic hearing test will help determine if further medical treatment might need to be explored.

Understanding these myths can help promote better awareness and more effective management of hearing loss. If you or someone you know is experiencing hearing difficulties, it's important to seek professional advice from a hearing healthcare provider. 

Contact us at Academy Hearing Centres today for a free, no obligation hearing test. We would also be happy to debunk any other myths…you cannot believe everything you hear! 

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