Hearing loss can significantly compromise quality of life. Studies show that untreated hearing loss is associated with depression, anxiety, lowered self-esteem, irritability and other issues that affect our ability to live life to the fullest. Hearing loss affects both the individual with the loss, as well as their families. If you know of someone with untreated hearing loss, you know its negative effects firsthand. The good news is that new and more effective treatments for hearing loss are now available, thanks to advances in hearing aids and medicine. Treating hearing loss has been proven to have very positive effects on quality of life. Loved ones play a critical role in ensuring that people with hearing loss seek and benefit from the remarkable advancements in hearing aids. The payoff is much more than better hearing – it’s a better life for those with hearing loss and their families.