Hearing Loss

Hearing loss means you have lost the ability to hear certain sounds. For example, maybe you struggle to pick out a single voice if there is a lot of background conversation, or you can no longer hear high pitched tones. This process starts from as young as 20 years of age.

Loss of hearing can happen suddenly when exposed to loud sounds or over a long period of time, which is often the case with age-related hearing loss. 

Hearing is essential for maintaining relationships and connections with friends and family. It allows us to fully participate in activities and experience life events. Hearing makes it possible for us to enjoy many of the things that help shape quality of life.

Age-related hearing loss is especially important to us at Hear Works. Studies have shown 'those with severe hearing impairment are five times more likely to develop dementia than those without'. This is because the 'hearing' section of the brain grows inactive, which results in brain shrinkage. 

Dementia is an ongoing decline of brain functioning which cannot be cured, however, good quality hearing allows us to engage which can help slow down the rapid progression. 

Do you suspect someone you love is suffering from hearing loss?

Some early symptoms can include:

• continually speaking louder and repeating for them to hear
• you sense they're missing out on parts of the conversation and becoming withdrawn
• their TV is too loud
• you see loved ones struggling to focus when background noise is present

Hearing loss can be hard to accept for some. They may find it hard to come to terms with it, feeling embarrassed or weak, but it should not be ignored. It is upsetting to see someone you care about withdraw from the things they love because they are unable to hear, so reaching out can improve their overall quality of life.