{"id":2146,"date":"2024-09-06T15:01:28","date_gmt":"2024-09-06T22:01:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/soundadviceburbank.com\/?p=2146"},"modified":"2024-09-06T15:02:01","modified_gmt":"2024-09-06T22:02:01","slug":"navigating-hearing-loss-as-you-age-tips-for-staying-connected","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/soundadviceburbank.com\/navigating-hearing-loss-as-you-age-tips-for-staying-connected\/","title":{"rendered":"Navigating Hearing Loss as You Age: Tips for Staying Connected"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Approximately one in three<\/a> U.S. adults between 65 and 74 have hearing loss. Age-related hearing loss, also called presbycusis, often develops gradually. You may first notice small symptoms like missing a word or phrase here and there. Over time, your symptoms can worsen, causing massive communication breakdowns and making you feel disconnected from those around you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While hearing loss can challenge social connections, effective communication strategies can help you adapt and thrive. Let\u2019s look at a few of these strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Seek Treatment Early<\/h2>\n\n\n
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It takes an average of seven years<\/a> from the time a patient suspects hearing loss until they seek treatment. It\u2019s easy to brush off the first signs of hearing loss, but early treatment can significantly reduce its negative impact. Schedule annual hearing exams, especially if you\u2019re over 60 or struggling to understand those around you. If your audiologist recommends hearing aids, don\u2019t hesitate to take the leap. These tiny devices collect and amplify speech and important background sounds to bring communication clarity\u2014enabling you to stay connected more easily<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Put Effort Into Social Activities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A 2020 review of 14 studies revealed that hearing loss is linked to an increased risk of loneliness and isolation<\/a>. This connection has significant consequences for older adults’ cognitive and emotional well-being, highlighting the importance of addressing hearing loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When dealing with hearing loss, it might seem tempting to withdraw, but staying involved in social activities is essential for maintaining connections. A few ways to remain engaged with those around you include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n