By Ellen Mantell
The aging process is known to cause dysfunction of so many organs and modalities, and loss of hearing is certainly one of the more serious. Not only does hearing loss affect our ability to communicate, but it also affects our ability to participate in social situations. Hearing loss is also considered a contributor to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Research suggests that wearing hearing aids slows down the deterioration of this vital sense.
I can remember having audiological evaluations years ago when I knew I was losing the endings of words. I was scrambling to catch up, stumbling over the present words, as I was trying to grasp the last spoken. My brain felt like it was racing, and yet, according to the audiologist, I “wasn’t ready” for aids. Today, we know there is no “ready for aids” because by not wearing them, we lose even more acuity. At this moment, I embrace my ability to wear my hearing aids, and I appreciate how much larger the world in which I can communicate has become.
My first aids, a few years ago, were quite basic, and perhaps what I needed in order to train my ears and auditory nerve (the nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain and carries sound and balance information) to accept the amplification they provided. Recently, however, I knew more was necessary, and my audiologist helped to pair me with a set (binaural, or both ears) that is amazing. These state-of-the-art hearing aids adjust to the world around me without my even realizing, or actually doing anything to make that happen.
Admittedly, I was frightened of dealing with the technology that would connect my hearing aids to my phone. I assumed it would feel daunting and disorienting. However, once I opened my mind and allowed the audiologist to walk me (okay…slowly) through the process, I left feeling empowered. I no longer need air pods to speak on the phone, or listen to books on Audible, one of my favorite hobbies.
If you are thinking that I actually sound like it is working out well to wear hearing aids, something that always seemed to be a burden, you are right. I will, however, caution you that hearing will definitely improve, but may never bring one to “perfect hearing”, as glasses may bring one to “perfect vision.” But I can tell you that these tiny amplifiers/microphones are truly amazing, and if this is as near “perfect” as it gets, I am a happy girl! And may I add, there is no magic time to seek the assistance of an audiologist. If you feel you should do it now, then do it now. Better hearing means a much-improved quality of life. The best part is that the next time someone asks, “Can you hear me now?” You will be able to answer, without a doubt, “Yes, I can!”