It's a real shame that so much stigma is attached to hearing loss. It's also a shame that hearing instrument advertisements tend to market denial by telling us we should look for invisible products. My hearing loss was diagnosed when I was in my 20s. I thought I was the only person in the world, who was my age, who had this issue. My entire outlook changed when I was introduced to the organization that is now known as the Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA), as it introduced me to thousands of other people like myself. Many were my age. I encourage you to check out HLAA at: http://www.hearingloss.org Explore the website, and check out their magazine. One of the recent issues was on music.

You may also be interested in learning about another organization at http://www.musicianswithhearingloss.org

Hearing technology has come a very long ways in the digital era. While hearing aids only amplified sound years ago when I first wore them, they do so much more today. They can also be 'fashion statements' believe it or not as they come in colors and patterns. Obviously, not everyone's choice, but they are available. I chose turquoise!

Yes, I went though depression, frustration, embarrassment and everything you say you are experiencing. It still happens sometimes. I thank my involvement in HLAA for turning my life around. It helped more than I can possibly explain, to meet other people like me who could validate my feelings about what was happening to me. It also helped me learn how to explain to family, friends and co-workers what it was that I needed to remain comfortably in the hearing world.

I am sure you know that noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss, and that protecting whatever level of hearing you have from getting worse is extremely important. Music, depending on variety, is often experienced at decibel levels above the danger point.

Do you know any other people personally who experience hearing loss?