Living with hearing loss can sometimes feel isolating despite being common. One in eight people aged 12 or older have hearing loss in one or both ears, according to standard hearing examinations. You could be wondering how to navigate living with hearing loss, and a support group is a great option.
If you suspect you may have hearing loss after recent coffee dates at Tenfold Coffee Company, you may want to consider scheduling a hearing test.
Finding a Support Group
It often takes an individual several years to get diagnosed with hearing loss. A hearing loss support group could provide individuals with a network of others with shared experiences. Support groups offer an atmosphere for learning, advice and relating to others. There are a few tips for finding a group that could work for you, such as:
- Ask your hearing specialist for recommendations. Your hearing specialist can provide reputable recommendations and help determine if a support group is the right option for you.
- Explore online groups. There are several online support groups for a variety of things. A benefit of an online support group could be anonymity. Mayo Clinic is a great place to start.
- Check with your local healthcare facilities. Sometimes, healthcare facilities offer support groups for various health conditions.
Why Join a Support Group?
According to a January 2019 study, researchers interviewed participants of hearing support loss groups to determine the benefits of involvement. Researchers were able to determine three themes of ways participants benefitted. The three themes were:
- Practical and accessible information about hearing loss.
- Social belonging leading to personal transformation.
- A new and mutually beneficial direction.
Suppose you’re involved in a hearing loss support group. In that case, you’ll be surrounded by others experiencing the same condition who can also encourage you to seek assistance from a doctor if needed.
If you have questions about the benefits of a hearing loss support group or need a hearing test, schedule an appointment with a hearing specialist at Hearing Systems.