If you’re scheduled for a hearing test in Los Angeles, your audiologist recommends bringing a spouse, family member or close friend with you. Unlike in high school and college, this is one test where you are encouraged to ask for help from somebody else.
Two Are Better than One at Your Hearing Appointment
Hearing loss is a widespread problem throughout California and the U.S. About 48 million Americans experience some degree of hearing impairment – that means one in five people have hearing loss in Los Angeles.
Surprisingly, many of these individuals are completely unaware of their hearing problem. Because the condition develops gradually, statistics show it takes the average person seven years from the onset of symptoms to seek treatment. Often it is a spouse or other loved one who notices the problem; this is one reason why your Los Angeles audiologist recommends bringing along a companion to your hearing test. That person is likely to contribute valuable information about the severity of your hearing loss and how long it has been an issue, knowledge that will help your audiologist have a better understanding of the effects hearing loss may be having on your relationship and other facets of your daily life. It will also help them come up with a solution for treatment. A companion is also a great source of emotional support during what is probably a confusing and upsetting time in your life.
Besides, hearing loss isn’t just your problem! It affects the whole family, inevitably changing the nature of your relationships – and not always for the better. A 2009 study surveyed 1,500 people with hearing loss and found the following results:
- 44 percent said relationships with their partner, friends or family suffered due to their hearing impairment
- 34 percent said they had lost touch with friends or experienced the ending of their marriage as a direct result of communication problems involving hearing loss
- 69 percent said hearing loss interfered with their ability to participate in everyday conversations
- Over 50 percent felt excluded from social situations
So, by all means, bring along somebody who knows you well. If you have any questions about what to expect during your appointment, don’t hesitate to contact your Los Angeles audiologist today.