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HEARING LOSS
QUICK FACTS
Hearing loss is an incredibly overlooked issue in society, and many people do not have a full understanding of hearing loss and what it looks like. ​So, we compiled a brief list of facts and for your understanding.
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How many Canadians have hearing loss?
According to Statistics Canada, 6 in 10 Canadians will experience some form of hearing loss at some point in their lives. Although this statistics is huge, keep in mind it includes both those diagnosed and undiagnosed with hearing loss. Hearing loss is also different from being deaf. We'll touch on this later.
Why aren't people properly diagnosed?
There's a huge stigma surrounding hearing loss. Even if someone knows that they have hearing loss, they might not want to be officially diagnosed with hearing loss and receive the treatment they need. Many people are afraid that, with the diagnosis, they'll be perceived by family and friends as someone with a "disability" who is less capable than others.
What are the effects of hearing loss?
Imagine you just came out of a swimming pool, and there was water stuck in your ear, causing a strong blurriness of all the sounds around you. Now imagine, that feeling never went away.
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Communication with others would be far more difficult, straining relationships with friends and family. Parties, concerts, and social events would be less enjoyable. Hearing loss causes a strong sense of isolation and loneliness, often leading to mental health issues such as dementia and depression.
How do people get hearing loss? What can I do to prevent it?
Hearing loss, unlike deafness, is often a result of acquired hearing loss. The accumulation of various factors over many years can easily lead to someone developing hearing loss.
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The most common factor is constant exposure to loud sounds (75+ decibels). This might be from playing in an orchestra, listening to loud music, or regularly going to parties. Avoiding hearing loss is simple: identify sources in your life that produce levels of decibels above the recommended amount of time, and do your best to eliminate them.
Is hearing loss curable?
Absolutely! 90% of those affected by hearing loss can improve their quality of life through changing their environment, seeking professional treatment, or wearing hearing aids.
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Sunnybrook Hospital's Cochlear Department is dedicated to helping those with hearing loss get the help they need. If any of this has resonated with you, please consider making a donation.
