Healthcare
Don't Miss the Moments That Matter This Summer: Hearing Experts and Cochlear Encourage People to Check Their Hearing Health
Summer is a season for social events, backyard barbecues, family vacations, and long conversations with friends. But for the more than 37 million Americans1 with hearing loss, these moments can feel frustrating.
About this update from Cochlear Limited
Dr. Candice Colby‑Scott shares how cochlear implants can help people reconnect, and why thinking ahead about care, including MRI access, matters LONE TREE, Colo., June 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Summer is a season for social events, backyard barbecues, family vacations, and long conversations with friends. But for the more than 37 million Americans1 with hearing loss, these moments can feel frustrating. Hearing health experts say this time of year is a good reminder to pay attention to how well you're hearing and to act if something doesn't feel right. Dr. Candice Colby‑Scott, a board-certified ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeon and cochlear implant specialist at Great Lakes Bay ENT, works with patients every day who want to reconnect with the people and sounds they love most. "Hearing loss doesn't just affect your ears, it affects your relationships and your quality of life," Dr. Colby‑Scott said. "The good news is, there are more options than ever to help people hear and stay connected." Below, Dr. Colby‑Scott answers common questions she hears from patients exploring cochlear implants. Q: When is a cochlear implant the right choice for a patient with hearing loss? A cochlear implant may be the right choice when hearing aids are no longer helping enough for hearing loss in both ears, or for those who may have lost hearing in one ear. Many people tell me they can hear sounds, but they still struggle to understand words, especially in busy places like restaurants or family gatherings. If hearing loss is making it harder to enjoy conversations or feel included, it's a good time to ask about other options. Q: What are some consequences of untreated hearing loss? We now know that our hearing involves more than just listening - hearing stimulates the brain and keeps us connected not only to our family but also our environment, in turn stimulating and feeding the brain with needed signals to stay healthy and active. Untreated severe hearing loss can increase the risk of memory and thinking problems by as much as five times2 and can increase the odds of falling and worsening imbalance.3-5 Treating hearing loss appropriately with hearing aids and cochlear implants when recommended by a professional is a good way to keep the brain sharp. Q: What is the process for getting a cochlear implant? It starts with a hearing test and a full evaluation. We review...