Hearing is about more than just understanding what's happening around you, it has a direct impact on quality of life, cognitive health and self esteem.

It shouldn't take much convincing to say that you should do as much as you can to look after your hearing.

But it may seem a little intimidating, overwhelming or even embarrassing to talk to someone about it.

My good friend Dr. Susan Waltzman is here today to break down the stigma and misinformation, and point us in the right direction to getting the help we need.

We talk about hearing aids, both over-the-counter ones that are a few hundred dollars, and the much more substantial Cochlear implants, which can be an absolute life-changer.

And here's the amazing thing: Cochlear in particular can be almost completely covered by Medicaid!

So get your hearing tested, that's the first step. Visit an Otolaryngologist or an Audiologist to get the ball rolling.

Addressing hearing loss can prevent social isolation and cognitive decline. So if you're struggling with hearing loss, take charge and rescue your hearing! There is help, and lots of it.

As per the subject, this one is audio-only: we want you to really concentrate on what's being said!

Find Dr. Suzie and some very useful resources here:

• ⁠Susan Waltzman, NYU Langone Health
  https://med.nyu.edu/faculty/susan-b-waltzman
• A Faster, Clearer Way to Program Cochlear Implants:
  https://nyulangone.org/news/faster-clearer-way-program-cochlear-implants
• Cochlear Implant most effective way to correct hearing impairments
  https://www.informa.com/media/press-releases-news/latest-news/cochlear-implant-most-effective-way-to-correct-hearing-impairment-in-arab-populations/

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