While the holidays are often associated with joy and togetherness, people with untreated hearing loss may approach the season with apprehension and feelings of loneliness.
Hearing Loss and Social Isolation
Hearing loss makes it harder to understand speech. It may seem like people are mumbling or that you have to ask others to repeat themselves often. This can make conversations difficult and lead to misunderstandings and feelings of frustration.
When it comes to the holidays, hearing loss makes activities like gift shopping, holiday parties or enjoying a festive treat with your family out at The Ruffled Cup seem overwhelming and difficult as opposed to fun. You may start to feel lonely even when you’re surrounded by loved ones because you feel cut off from communicating with them.
Some people with hearing loss even begin to avoid social activities and isolate themselves from others rather than suffer through not being able to understand conversations that are happening around them. Isolation can lead to additional problems like worsening hearing loss, feelings of anxiety and depression, and could potentially increase your risk of cognitive decline.
Hearing Aids Can Make Your Holidays More Joyful
Using hearing aids to treat your hearing loss can help you reclaim your joy this holiday season and beyond.
A study published in 2021 compared two groups of people with hearing loss. One group was made up of people who were going to be fitted with their first hearing aids, while the second group left their hearing loss untreated. Researchers found that after six months, “social activity level increased and social participation restriction decreased significantly after hearing aid fitting in the intervention group compared to the control group.”
Hearing aids make it easier to communicate and engage with others. They give you the ability to relax and enjoy connecting with your loved ones instead of worrying about your hearing.
Schedule a Hearing Test
If you’ve been struggling with your hearing, get in for a hearing test as soon as possible. The quicker hearing loss is diagnosed and treatment begins, the better it is for your hearing health and overall well-being.
Don’t let hearing loss get in the way of making this holiday season one to remember. Call the experts at Amarillo Hearing Clinic and schedule an appointment today.
