Maintain Your Independence, Presence and Happiness by Maintaining Your Hearing
Most of us strive to age gracefully, holding onto our youth and vitality for as long as possible. Typically, this means focusing on physical health through smart lifestyle choices, taking care of our appearance, and visiting primary care physicians for regular checkups. However, one critical aspect of aging well—hearing health—is often overlooked.
Most of us strive to age gracefully, holding onto our youth and vitality for as long as possible. Typically, this means focusing on physical health through smart lifestyle choices, taking care of our appearance, and visiting primary care physicians for regular checkups. However, one critical aspect of aging well—hearing health—is often overlooked.
According to Bob Froke, an audiologist at Midwest ENT & Allergy, individuals experiencing hearing loss often endure embarrassment, exhaustion, isolation, anger, forgetfulness, and even cognitive decline long before seeking help from a hearing specialist. Remarkably, the average person waits seven years to address hearing loss.
“Studies have shown that people who address hearing loss early are able to maintain their independence significantly longer than those who don’t,” Bob explains. “They often delay the need for nursing home or assisted living care by years.”
“My patients feel more confident, and life becomes easier because their mental and emotional fatigue decreases. Embarrassment from always asking people to repeat themselves is exhausting. After addressing their hearing loss, my patients feel more alert and awake at the end of the day. When I see these changes, I know I’ve done my job well. Helping people in this way has been incredibly rewarding.” –Bob Froke, MA, CCC-A, FAAA, Audiologist at Midwest ENT & Allergy
And for people who think that hearing loss is for just the ‘elderly’, think again. Bob emphasizes the importance of establishing a hearing baseline as early as age 50. “You should have your hearing checked every two years after 50, and annually after 60,” he advises. “One in four people will experience significant hearing loss after age 60, and this number doubles after age 70.” The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) reports that more than half of people in their 70s and over 80% of those in their 80s have mild to moderate hearing loss.
Hearing loss doesn’t just affect the individual—it impacts their entire circle, including family, friends, and acquaintances. Many people withdraw from activities and relationships due to the frustrations caused by their condition.
Fortunately, while hearing loss isn’t entirely preventable, it can be managed and maintained with the help of a licensed provider. “Research shows that patients whose hearing we address with proper care and a hearing improvement plan experience minimal progression of their condition,” says Bob. “By checking devices annually and ensuring nerves are stimulated correctly, we can preserve and minimize the digression of hearing loss. Like any health condition, early treatment leads to better outcomes. Investing in your hearing is an investment in yourself.”
For more information or to schedule a hearing consultation, contact Midwest ENT & Allergy at 605-275-1205.