As many as one in seven people in the UK have problems with their hearing – that’s nearly nine million people. Yet less than a third of those who could benefit from modern miniature hearing aids actually wear them. Christmas is a time when a hearing problem can become really apparent, but it’s also a great opportunity to recognize and address this difficulty.

As Richard Moss RHAD, FSHAA, MRSH, senior partner at Oxford Hearing Centre and Chairman of AIHHP (the Association of Independent Hearing Healthcare Professionals underlines:

“Many people struggle for years and years before seeking help and going for even a simple hearing check-up. There are many reasons – denial, simple vanity, and a lack of appreciation of the remarkable benefits current hearing assistive technology can now offer. Christmas is the time when the effects of hearing loss are most noticeable – to the sufferer and their family and friends.”

Hearing and quality of life are intrinsically linked. Even mild hearing loss can make everyday actions more challenging. It can create frustration and a loss of confidence. Also, keenly apparent at Christmas, is the sense of ‘being left out’. It can make people feel cut off from their family and friends and make everyday communication extremely difficult. Yet hearing is so often the forgotten sense – think how many of us regularly go for eye and dental checks and how little we have our hearing tested.

Richard continues;

“At the Oxford Hearing Centre we have helped many hundreds of patients, some of whom have suffered in silence for years. So our message this Christmas is simple. If you’re missing out on the fun, games and conversation over the festive period, or if you notice a family member of friend is having difficulties, you can do something about it. Come and see us for a New Year’s hearing assessment and you could soon be on the road to feeling back in the swing of things."

“So many patients tell us, ‘I wish I’d had done this years ago – it’s like a new lease of life!’ The benefits of the latest digital hearing technology, coupled with the expert service of a professional hearing aid audiologist, are significant and hearing aids are cosmetically better than ever, so this is your chance!"

“Don’t wait another year, get the most out of life by making a New Years Resolution to get your hearing checked!”

Oxford Hearing Centre
157 Eynsham Road
Oxford OX2 9NE
Tel. 01865 861 861

www.oxfordhearingcentre.co.uk

Published: December 2007