Did you know that hearing is the fastest sense?
A person can hear between 20 and 100 times faster than they can see. This means that everything we hear impacts our perceptions and even our thoughts, which in turn influences how we act or react to, for example, unexpected loud sounds.
Hearing is not only vital for our personal safety, according to Dr Catherine van Dijk, head of the cochlear implant unit at the Ear Institute, but it also plays an important role in the quality of our relationships and our life in general. “If we cannot hear well, it is frustrating to follow a conversation. This often results in people missing out on enriching and important experiences and events, such as the laughter of a grandchild.
It is also hard to stay connected with family and friends when you have hearing loss, as this sense forms a vital part of the communication process. “It is thus also a major cause of stress in intimate relationships, as it leads to a loss of spontaneity and normal everyday interactions, as well as a sense of isolation for both partners,” says Van Dijk. People who experience hearing loss often feel excluded, disconnected, lonely, and exhausted. It is also quite interesting to note that research shows that hearing loss plays a role in developing early-onset dementia.”
How can the Ear Institute help?
According to Van Dijk, the Ear Institute is a family-owned business that has been helping people with hearing loss since 1975. “The Ear Institute understands the physical, psychological, and social impact of impaired hearing. For the past almost 50 years, we have helped thousands of people get back their lives.
Do the self test?
You might have a hearing problem if any of the below apply to you:
- People seem to mumble when they talk.
- You often ask people to repeat themselves.
- You have a family history of hearing loss.
- You have had COVID-19.
- Cellphone conversations are difficult to follow.
- Children’s and ladies’ voices are often difficult to follow.
- You don’t always know which direction sound is coming from.
“I highly recommend the Ear Institute to anyone requiring advice and support/ Took my husband there, who has been diagnosed with dementia so I explained the situation to the the hearing professional prior to our consult. They were so discreet and understanding regarding his circumstances and treated him with utmost kindness and patience. The level of skill, expertise and professionalism is unparalleled. The facilities are clean and staff extremely welcoming. They even handled the medical aid submission and all admin was seamless.” – DMP, Fourways
If you have any questions about your hearing, or would like to speak with an Audiologist, we’d love to hear from you.
Make a booking today!
Getting your hearing checked regularly is an important step in maintaining your overall health and wellness.
Take our quick, easy online hearing screening test.
Our guide will help you make informed decisions about your journey to better hearing.
Download your FREE guide to better hearing!