(NC)–Imagine going through life unable to understand what people are saying or having to constantly ask people to repeat themselves. This is the reality faced by thousands of Canadians, young and old alike, who suffer from hearing loss.
The statistics are staggering. According to Health Canada, about 28% of those over the age of 65 have a significant hearing problem. For people over 75, that figure increases significantly to 48 per cent. Hearing loss associated with aging is so gradual that those affected by it aren’t always aware of the problem.
Children learn speech and language from listening to others. The first few years are particularly critical for speech and language development. However, if a hearing loss exists, a child does not get the full benefit of language learning experiences. And if a hearing loss goes unnoticed, delays in speech and language can occur. For this reason, early diagnosis of a hearing loss in children is extremely important. Be aware of recurring ear infections and take notice if your child is inattentive, pulls at the ears, is irritable, and/or listless, speaks loudly or watches television with the volume up. Watch for a child that says "what?" a lot or has trouble understanding a conversation in a noisy environment.
Young or old, if you suspect a problem, act right away. An audiologist can determine the exact nature of a person’s hearing problem and can assess the severity of any hearing loss, even in a very young child. Referrals can be made to an ear, nose and throat specialist or non-medical measures, such as a prescription, hearing aid or similar device; can be imitated by the audiologist.
And remember, no child is too young to be tested. Hearing loss can be diagnosed and treated even in newborn babies.
- News Canada
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