ABSTRACT

Although the importance of good hearing can hardly be overestimated, it has not been appreciated by the public, or even by the medical community. Over 40 million Americans have hearing loss, and there is still a stigma attached to deafness. Little has changed from the days when society had to be admonished: ''Thou shalt not curse the deaf." Although hearing loss may not be regarded widely as a punishment from God, it is seen still as an embarrassing infirmity, or a sign of aging and senility, and it is associated with a loss of sexual attractiveness. Too often patients do not seek medical attention of their own accord. Many deny and tolerate hearing loss for a considerable period of time before being coerced by a family member to seek medical care. Patients accept the need for eyeglasses easily, but it is unusual to tell someone that he/she needs a hearing aid without causing distress. This is every bit as common in 70 year-old patients as it is in teenagers.