Columnists

Hearing Loss And Baby Boomers

Issue 37.15

Baby boomers, or those born between 1946 and 1964, are the largest group experiencing hearing loss today. In fact, one in six boomers currently has some degree of loss. Although a growing number of boomers are living with hearing loss, only about 25 percent are proactively seeking help.

Hearing Loss in the Workforce

Baby boomers make up about one-third of the workforce today, and even though many are starting to reach retirement age, most—whether by choice or otherwise—are opting to forego retirement altogether. Unfortunately, as many Americans are continuing to work well into their mid- to late 60s, less-than-ideal work environments may have an impact on how well we hear. Because our ears are exposed to loud noises every day, constant exposure can weaken our hearing over time.

Causes of Hearing Loss

Our daily lives are full of noise. From the moment our alarms buzz in the morning to the seconds before we fall asleep, our ears are constantly exposed to a world of sound. Unfortunately, some sounds are more harmful than others. Of the three main types of hearing loss, noise-induced is the most common. More than a third of all cases of hearing loss are attributed to noise, and baby boomers are the ones who are experiencing it the most.

Acknowledging Hearing Loss

It’s important to acknowledge the warning signs of hearing loss and take action as soon as possible. Because only a small fraction of physicians screen for hearing loss during physicals, signs of loss may be present even if a doctor fails to recognize it. If you’ve found others complaining about your hearing, or if you’re finding it harder to follow social conversations, it may be time to get your hearing checked.

Treating Hearing Loss

One of the main reasons so many baby boomers are neglecting to seek treatment is because of the stigma of hearing aids. In the past, hearing aids were big, bulky and awkward. However, thanks to advances in digital technology, hearing aids today are revolutionizing the way people hear. They’re smaller, more discreet and include a variety of different features. Best of all, 90 percent of people who use hearing aids have been found to improve their overall quality of life.  The Better Hearing Institute estimates nearly 36 million Americans are currently living with hearing loss. If you or someone you know has hearing loss, encourage them to seek help. Regardless of whether the hearing loss is mild, moderate or severe, seeking treatment sooner will help treat the problem before it gets worse.

Call Miracle-Ear today to schedule your free hearing evaluation! 435-275-4125

616 S. River Road, Suite 210. St. George, UT  84790 or 1870 N Main St., Ste. 101 Cedar City, UT. 

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