Collin County Living Well Magazine September/October 2016 | Page 29

Hearing Matters
By Elizabeth
Brassine, Au.D.

W

hat’s the best thing
you’ve ever heard?
Maybe it was the
first song you danced to at your wedding or a putt landing
in the cup on the 18th hole or your child’s (or grandchild’s)
voice. What we hear matters; it breathes depth and life into
every experience we have.
Hearing loss disconnects you from the people and things you
love. The changes might be small at first––asking people to
repeat themselves, straining to hear on the phone, etc. But
over time, you may find yourself missing the bulk of a conversation, or avoiding events you never used to miss.

people will be over the age of 60. Your loved ones will be
the first to notice. Hearing loss can cause isolation and depression. It can build a wall around you. Older adults with
untreated hearing loss are more likely to report depression
and anxiety, and less likely to join in social gatherings. So,
don’t wait to get evaluated. Most hearing loss is treatable. In
fact 95% of hearing loss is treatable with hearing aids.
Second, talk about it. If you realize someone you love is having problems with hearing, talk with them about it. Encourage them to make an appointment with an audiologist. It can
be helpful to go with the loved one to the appointment.

Now for great news: there’s plenty you and your loves ones
can do to stay tuned in to every moment. Here are the steps
that you can take.

Third, see an audiologist. A hearing test can show how your
hearing is working. The visit should also include a good case
history, a physical examination of the outer ear, and an evaluation of your listening situations and