Your hearing is your most important sense for communications and quality of life. Hearing loss that occurs gradually as you age is very common.  About 25 percent of people in the United States between the ages of 55 and 64 have some degree of hearing loss.

 

Aging and chronic exposure to loud noises are the most common factors that contribute to hearing loss. You can’t reverse most types of hearing loss, but today there are hearing specialist that can help you improve your hearing.

 

Farm Bureau members are fortunate to have a discount benefit with ClearValue Hearing.  The ClearValue Hearing Program is one of the most comprehensive hearing healthcare programs available. Members can select the style and technology that fits their need and lifestyle.

 

Here are some of the consequences of untreated hearing loss:

 

Depression                Untreated hearing loss have significantly higher incidence of feelings of isolation and depression.

 

Lifespan                    Studies show adults with untreated impaired hearing have a shorter lifespan than peers with hearing aids.

 

Cognitive Decline      Adults with untreated hearing loss experience a 30-40% faster decline in cognitive abilities.

 

Balance                     People with a mild hearing loss (less than 25 decibels) are three times more likely to have a history of falling. Each additional 10 decibels of loss will increase the falling risk by 14 times.

 

5X Dementia             Adults with untreated hearing loss are up to 5 times more likely to develop dementia.

 

May is National Better Hearing and Speech Month.  It’s the perfect time to encourage people to get their hearing tested.  Remember, Better Hearing is Better Living!

 

Source:  ClearValue Hearing

 

Editor’s note: For more information on our member benefits including our regional benefits go to Arizona Farm Bureau’s member benefits page online. Or, download the Member Benefits app (FB Benefits) to your smart phone for easy, everyday access to your benefits.