Despite the advancements in hearing aid technology and the continued improvement in customization, people with hearing loss still hesitate to invest in devices.
So, what’s contributing to that pervasive resistance? To understand why people don’t wear hearing aids, you need to understand the social and emotional impacts of hearing loss. It can influence your self-image, especially if there’s a stigma associated with the condition. However, avoiding treatment can result in a progression of your symptoms. Let’s look at some of the other reasons people don’t want to get hearing aids.
#1: Social and Psychological Barriers
People tend to minimize the issues that don’t present immediate physical or psychological problems. You may believe that your hearing loss isn’t “bad enough” to warrant getting devices or that you’re coping with your symptoms. But that approach can result in an avoidance that prevents you from seeking hearing loss treatment early on.
Other social and emotional reasons include:
A fear of looking old: Hearing loss is a condition that’s often associated with older individuals, but it can affect you at any age. Stigmas associated with getting older or being perceived as less capable can scare people away from getting devices.
Denial: You might not view your hearing loss as urgent until it becomes more noticeable. The trouble is that as your hearing health worsens, it can be harder to address and reduce your treatment options.
Embarrassment: Acknowledging your hearing loss may feel like you’re admitting to a weakness. That sense of shame could prevent you from seeking treatment.
#2: Financial Concerns
Hearing aids are an investment, and the financial commitment is one of the most common reasons that stop people from getting them. The sophisticated technology and improved processing may result in a higher upfront cost, which might not feel manageable if you’re on a budget. Insurance coverage for hearing devices also varies depending on your provider. That sticker shock may make you feel that hearing loss isn’t necessary to treat right away.
There are a variety of financing options that can help you fund your hearing aid purchase. Consult your audiologist to learn about payment plans and healthcare accounts that can offset the initial expense of devices.
#3: Pervasive Misconceptions
The misconception of hearing aids being large, beige contraptions continues to influence people’s decision to use them. Today’s devices are available in smaller, more stylish designs and come in various models to suit your auditory needs and aesthetic preferences. Some are slim enough to be nearly imperceptible.
Another misunderstanding that often causes people to stop wearing hearing aids is the expectation that devices will restore perfect hearing. Unlike glasses that provide instant correction, hearing aids must work with a damaged auditory system and require fine-tuning to enhance sounds correctly. That goes beyond volume and includes bass, treble and background noise reduction.
#4: Lifestyle Concerns
Personal and lifestyle barriers to hearing aid use include:
Adjustment period: If you’ve lived with hearing loss for a while, your brain will also need time to relearn how to interpret sounds. It can take weeks or months to fully adjust to wearing hearing aids. That includes learning to ignore background sounds you didn’t know you were missing. That can be frustrating and put you off from wearing your devices consistently.
Physical comfort: Even the slimmest hearing aid can feel awkward in your ears. You can work with your audiologist to make physical adjustments or try other styles to find the right fit for your unique ear shape.
Activity level: Some hearing aids aren’t ideal for active lifestyles. If you enjoy playing sports and exercising outdoors, you may require a more compact design. On the other hand, dexterity issues can make it difficult to handle small hearing aids, so you may need a larger option.
#5: Combining Hearing Aids and Smart Technology
Today’s hearing aids offer far more than amplified sound. Many models integrate seamlessly with smartphone apps, giving you greater control over your devices so you can personalize the settings at your convenience.
Through these apps, you can:
- Adjust settings in real-time to match your environment, including volume, bass, treble and background noise levels.
- Create location-specific listening programs for your favorite restaurant, church or auditorium that automatically activate via your phone’s location services.
- Track your activity levels and monitor certain health metrics, depending on the device.
- Benefit from safety features like fall detection, which can alert designated contacts if an incident occurs.
Tips for Overcoming Barriers to Hearing Aid Use
- Seek professional support to determine which devices will best address your type and degree of hearing loss.
- Check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage options to finance your purchase.
- Ask your doctor about discount programs and manufacturer promotions to help bridge the cost gap.
- Learn about the latest hearing technology and features, such as wireless connectivity, automatic adjustments, noise reduction and directional microphones.
- Give yourself time to get used to your devices. Wear them for longer periods over time to help your brain adjust.
- Build a support network of family and friends who can help you along your hearing journey.
Learn About the Latest Devices at Hearing Associates
You don’t have to navigate your hearing loss treatment on your own. The Hearing Associates’ team is committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our expert audiologists and hearing specialists are well-versed in the latest technology and will provide personalized recommendations to address your unique needs. We also offer adjustment and maintenance services to ensure your hearing aids function properly. Contact us to schedule your appointment.