Hearing Loss Apathy Leads to Failure of Seeking Treatment
Apathy is generally defined as a lack of motivation, interest or indifference towards an issue – in this case hearing loss. Hearing loss is upsetting and scary. It is a complicated communication disorder that affects every aspect of life and therefore quality of life. It takes motivation and persistence to get answers and not to let hearing loss dominate one’s existence. Inaction due to apathy has the direct opposite effect.
It all starts with denial
Yes, there is plenty of stigma attached to hearing loss. Although the numbers are up in every age sector, old age and “appearing out of it” still top the charts of why many people deny the obvious communication struggles for as long as possible. They try to “bluff” their way through conversations and meetings. They take a wait-and-see attitude and delay seeking help and answers. After all, they still “hear”– as long as it is quiet.
The defense mechanisms of denial & delay become bad habits and the first steps towards the slippery slope of apathy. Let it go. What can be done anyway and so why even care? It is easy to give up and to claim indifference and even ignorance. However, deep down, the issue still nags at people – and in so many ways that is good.
Why apathy?
Over the years, I have heard many untrue statements regarding hearing loss. However, these are often enough to keep people from seeking information and resources and from becoming involved. It is often said that hearing loss cannot be helped, which is not true. It is an unavoidable part of aging – actually, it can happen at any age. It only gets worse – if we do not take action to preserve what we have. Technology is unaffordable, unmanageable, of little help. It is all about the money…etc.
These are all excuses and expressions of feeling scared, frustrated and overwhelmed. Although people may have tried to get help, they may not have met the specialist who understood their needs and their limits. Maybe they were afraid of finding answers and information that would unsettle them. Maybe complicated technology intimidated them and made them feel inadequate. Gradually, they become discouraged and lose interest. Apathy sets in, which of course is not helpful at all.
Playing our part: No time to give up!
Unfortunately, people often do not appreciate their own very important role for making the best of the hearing they have left and for preserving that hearing. Think of hearing loss as a health condition and treat it as such. There is no place for defeatism, apathy and disinterest. Instead, it is time for action. Learn about it! Basic information can be found on reputable websites such the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA). Consider attending a meeting online. Maybe there is a Chapter in your City? Talk to your doctor and get a referral for a professional diagnostic hearing test. What‘s going in in the first place?
In the end,
Avoid the denial and apathy traps. Nothing good comes from them except for the depression, isolation and reduced quality of life that hearing loss is famous for. And nobody wants to go there.