Rock music has been pin-pointed as the culprit for boomers in their fifties and sixties who are dealing with significant hearing loss because this generation was the first to be subjected to this ear-splitting music according to a report from ABC News in Denver. The report also said that earbuds, headphones and concerts may all contribute. The problem is that most baby boomers choose not to do anything about it - even though there are some dire consequences.

A Harris poll for Cochlear Americas found that hearing loss has a profound impact on quality of life and is known to cause depression and isolation. It can also be a health hazard if, for instance, you can't hear oncoming traffic, heed verbal warnings, etc.

The poll says that 57 percent of men and 37 percent of women are hearing impaired and undiagnosed. These people could seek treatment that is painless and convenient and are designed to fit almost any budget and lifestyle.

Today's high-tech hearing instruments can "talk" to each other and self adjust to filter out annoying background noise. Some have as many as a million computer-connected adjustments to customize hearing experience and specifically suit an individual's particular loss. Many hearing aids come with remote controls that allow digital volume adjustments and can be custom designed with specific hearing programs to enhance music and television sound, and eliminate background noises like wind that can cause whistles and screeches.

According to lifestyles, audiologists can monitor the settings that work best and offer information about the benefits individual insurance companies may or may not provide. An audiologist will do a preliminary workup and a series of hearing tests to determine specific needs.

It is recommended that hearing should be screened annually.

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