How hearing loss differs from vision loss

Debbie Clason, the staff writer for healthyhearing.com recently published a remarkable article on the differences between hearing loss and vision loss.

Debbie describes how correcting vision loss with prescription lenses restores your vision to 20/20 as soon as the lenses are put to use. However because most of those with hearing loss wait several years before pursuing hearing aids – the brain needs to readjust to, and learn to process the sounds that the hearing aid is amplifying.

Research indicates the average person diagnosed with hearing loss waits an average of seven to 10 years before seeking treatment. During that time, other medical and social problems such as an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia as well as anxiety, depression and social isolation can result.

Of course, the sooner hearing aids are prescribed and worn regularly, the less risk of losing the word understanding in those auditory pathways in the brain.

The bottom line: Both your vision and your hearing are important senses which should be evaluated on a regular basis. When you are diagnosed with vision loss, you wear corrective lenses but the same people are more unlikely to treat a hearing loss.

Don’t be a statistic! Have your hearing tested by our Doctors of Audiology, Audiologists! Call today to arrange your appointment with our doctors of Audiology at (519) 961-9285!