Is Moderate Hearing Loss Considered a Disability?
Hearing loss is a common issue that can affect people of all ages. It can range from mild to severe, with each level impacting an individual's ability to hear and communicate differently. But what about moderate hearing loss? Is it considered a disability, and how does it affect daily life?
As a leading provider of hearing care services in Ireland, we understand the challenges and concerns of hearing loss at Carlow Hearing. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of this type of hearing loss, including what it is, how it's treated, and whether it's considered a disability.
What is a Disability?
The term "disability" refers to any physical or mental impairment significantly impacting an individual's ability to participate in daily activities and communicate. Disabilities can be temporary or permanent and can range from mild to severe.
Classification of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is classified based on the decibel (dB) level at which an individual can hear sounds. The classification system is as follows:
Mild hearing loss: 20-40 dB
Moderate hearing loss: 41-60 dB
Severe hearing loss: 61-80 dB
Profound hearing loss: 81 dB or greater
What Causes Moderate Hearing Loss?
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to this kind of hearing loss, including:
Age
As we age, our hearing naturally begins to decline. This is known as age-related hearing loss or presbycusis.
Noise-induced Hearing Loss
Exposure to loud noises during work or leisure activities can cause hearing loss.
Ear Infections
Repeated ear infections can damage the delicate structures in the ear and lead to hearing loss.
Congenital Conditions
Some people are born with hearing loss due to genetic factors or complications during pregnancy or childbirth.
Medicine Side Effects
Some medications can cause hearing loss as a side effect, exceptionally high doses of certain antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs.
Trauma
Physical trauma to the ear, such as a blow to the head, can cause hearing loss.
Health Conditions
Certain health conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, can increase the risk of hearing loss. It's worth noting that hearing loss is often a gradual process, and many people may not realise they have hearing loss until it becomes more severe.
Is Moderate Hearing Loss a Disability?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), moderate hearing loss is considered a disability when it interferes with daily life and communication. This means that if someone with hearing loss has difficulty participating in conversations, following lectures, or watching TV, it could be considered a disability.
However, it's important to note that hearing loss is a spectrum and everyone's experience differs. Some people with this type of hearing loss may not consider it a disability, while others may find it significantly affects their daily life.
The Impact of Hearing Loss on Quality of Life
Hearing loss, even at a moderate level, can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. It can make it challenging to communicate with others, participate in social activities, and perform daily tasks.
In some cases, hearing loss may lead to social isolation and depression, as individuals may feel isolated and unable to participate fully in daily life. It can also impact an individual's ability to work and earn a living.
How Can Moderate Hearing Loss Be Treated?
There are several treatment options available for individuals with moderate hearing loss, including:
Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are small electronic devices that amplify sounds and can make it easier to hear and understand speech. They can be customised to fit an individual's specific hearing loss and can be adjusted over time as hearing changes.
There are different types of hearing aids available, including:
Behind-the-ear (BTE), which sit behind the ear and have a small tube that fits into the ear canal
In-the-ear (ITE), which fit inside the outer ear
In-the-canal (ITC), which fit partially in the ear canal
Completely-in-the-canal (CIC), which fit entirely in the ear canal and are nearly invisible
Assistive Devices
In addition to hearing aids, several assistive devices can help individuals with moderate hearing loss communicate and participate in daily life, including:
Captioning, which displays the written text of spoken words on a screen, can help watch TV or movies
Telecoils, which allow individuals to hear sounds more clearly over the phone or in public venues with hearing loops, such as theatres and churches
Alerting devices, such as flashing doorbells or smoke alarms with vibrating pads, can help individuals with hearing loss stay safe.
Find the Support You Need for Hearing Loss
Moderate hearing loss can be a disability if it significantly affects an individual's ability to communicate and participate in daily activities. However, with proper treatment and assistive devices, individuals with this level of hearing loss can lead fulfilling lives and stay connected with the world around them.
If you suspect you or a loved one may have hearing loss, don't hesitate to schedule a hearing test. At Carlow Hearing, our team of experienced audiologists and hearing aid dispensers is dedicated to providing top-quality care and support to individuals with hearing loss. We'll work with you to find the best treatment options and help you stay connected to the world around you.