Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
Latest posts by Bonnie L. Baehr, Au.D. (see all)
- Exploring the Genetic Landscape of Hearing Loss: Understanding the Role of Genetics - April 15, 2024
- The Hazards of Pretending to Hear - March 25, 2024
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Hearing loss is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. Yet, it is often ignored for years before it is treated. According to a recent study, over half of all adults over 60 have some degree of hearing loss, and this number is only expected to rise as the population ages. Despite the prevalence of hearing loss, many people put off seeking treatment for their hearing, which can hurt their quality of life.
An invisible problem
Hearing loss is an invisible condition, unlike vision problems, because others cannot easily see it. Unlike vision problems, which can be evident to others through behaviors such as squinting or holding things close to the face, hearing loss is a condition experienced internally by the individual. This can make it difficult for others to recognize that someone is experiencing hearing loss and make it harder for the individual to seek help for their condition.
Another reason that hearing loss is an invisible condition is that it can be a gradual process. Unlike vision problems, which can often happen suddenly, hearing loss most often occurs gradually over time. This can make it difficult for people to realize that their hearing is declining and make it harder for others to notice the signs of hearing loss. As a result, people with hearing loss may not seek help until their hearing has declined significantly, making it more challenging to treat.
Finally, hearing loss is an invisible condition because it can significantly impact a person’s life without being readily apparent to others. People with hearing loss may struggle to follow conversations, particularly in noisy environments. They may have difficulty hearing important sounds, such as the doorbell or the phone ringing. This can lead to isolation and frustration, but these feelings may not be evident to others.
Overall, hearing loss is an invisible condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s life. People need to be aware of the signs of hearing loss and seek help if they are experiencing any symptoms. Still, it is often difficult for others to recognize and understand. This can make it challenging for people with hearing loss to seek help and get treatment.
Other reasons why people put off hearing treatment include:
Stigma: Another reason people may put off seeking treatment for their hearing loss is the stigma that is often associated with it. Many people view hearing loss as a sign of old age, and they may be afraid of appearing older by wearing hearing aids or seeking other forms of treatment. This fear of appearing older can be extreme among older adults who are worried about losing their independence or being seen as less capable.
Fear: In addition to the stigma associated with hearing loss, many people fear losing their hearing completely. This fear can lead to denial, as people may avoid getting their hearing tested or seeking treatment because they are afraid of what the results might reveal. In some cases, people may believe that their hearing loss is not severe enough to warrant treatment or assume that nothing can be done to improve their hearing.
The benefits of hearing loss treatment
A recent study published in the journal Ear and Hearing found that people who seek treatment for their hearing loss early are more likely to experience a better quality of life than those who wait. The study found that people who received treatment for their hearing loss within six months of noticing a decline in their hearing were more likely to report better overall quality of life, including better social interactions, improved relationships with loved ones, and a greater sense of independence.
There are many benefits to seeking treatment for hearing loss, and it is never too late to improve your hearing. By scheduling a consultation with a hearing specialist, you can get your hearing tested and learn more about the treatment options that are available to you. Hearing aids and other assistive devices can help improve your hearing and make a big difference in your daily life.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of hearing loss, such as difficulty hearing conversation or a constant ringing in your ears, it is essential to get your hearing tested as soon as possible. Early treatment can help improve your hearing, prevent further decline, and help you reconnect with your loved ones. So don’t wait – schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step towards better hearing and quality of life.