Approximately 46 million Americans experience some form of communication disorder. Communication disorders can compromise physical and emotional health and affect the social, educational, vocational, and recreational aspects of life.
To raise awareness about communication disorders, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) joins the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) in observing Better Hearing and Speech Month each May. The NIDCD, ASHA, and many allied organizations educate the public about communication disorders, treatments, and current research that can improve the lives of those with hearing loss or with voice, speech, or language disorders. This year’s Better Hearing and Speech Month theme is “Communication: The Key to Connection.”
Approximately 15 percent of American adults, or 37.5 million people, report some degree of hearing loss. Hearing loss isn’t just an ear issue; it’s a quality of life and health issue. Hearing loss can lead to feelings of isolation and a lack of connection with family, friends, and community. Hearing loss is also linked to cardiovascular disease, dementia, and diabetes. Studies show treating hearing loss can boost quality of life. People with hearing loss who use hearing aids are less likely to feel down, depressed, or hopeless, and they get more pleasure from doing things.
Luckily, the vast majority of people with hearing loss can benefit from hearing aids. Tremendous advances in technology — even in just the last couple of years — have made today’s hearing aids better than ever. When you’re able to hear and engage with the world around you, you will live a better and healthier life. So, celebrate better hearing in the month of May and throughout the year by getting your hearing checked by an Audiologist.