Hearing loss affects a large percentage of the population. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 37 million adults in the United States have trouble hearing, making hearing loss a public issue third in line after heart disease and arthritis.

Even a mild hearing loss causes communication problems, making conversation difficult. A person with hearing loss may experience headaches, fatigue or irritability and isolate themselves from social situations. Not only will that person be frustrated, but those around the person with hearing loss may be angry or frustrated at trying to make them understand. The ability to deal with hearing loss won’t get better by itself.

If you or someone you love has hearing loss, St. Luke’s Hospital invites you to join Cynthia Pace, CCC-SLP, speech therapist with St. Luke’s Outpatient Rehabilitation Center.

On Tuesday, May 21, from 1 – 3 p.m. in the St. Luke’s Hospital library she will offer tips, strategies and options for more effective communication. The program is free and spaces are limited. Call 828-894-2408 to reserve your spot.

– article submitted by  Jennifer Wilson