Nearly 36 million Americans suffer from hearing loss—and you may be one of them, especially if you’ve noticed a negative change in your relationships.

Common signs of hearing loss include misunderstanding words, turning up the television volume and embarrassment in social situations from not being able to keep up with conversations. The inability to hear can cause isolation, withdrawal and frustration, and can lead to the breakdown of communication within close relationships. Many spouses feel neglected and ignored. And those people who suffer from hearing loss are more likely to have depression and anxiety, as reported in a study by the National Council on Aging in 1999.

This study asked respondents and their family members to describe how hearing aids had enhanced their life. Hearing aid usage showed strong evidence for improving quality of life for people with hearing loss, including higher earning power; enhanced personal relationships and social life; a greater sense of independence; reduction in anger, frustration, depression, anxiety and self-criticism; and less occurrence of pain.

Shockingly, only one out of five people with a hearing loss wears a hearing aid, according to The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communications Disorders. Today’s hearing instruments are lightweight and discreet, with cutting-edge digital technology. Also available are cochlear implants, which provide an invisible solution for severe to profound hearing loss.

If your hearing loss is negatively impacting your relationships, social life or work performance, we can help! Call us now and we’ll determine the hearing device that best fits your hearing needs and lifestyle.

Deborah Marcus, M.S., CCC-A, has over 28 years experience as an audiologist. She is located at 185 Cedar Lane in Teaneck. Call 201-928-9808 to make an appointment.

By Dr. Debbie Marcus