Profound effects
A study examining the effects that hearing loss has on the functional status of older adults demonstrated that hearing loss and reduced func tional status are directly related. Even mild hearing loss can isolate older adults, leading to deterioration of their quality of life. Hearing loss can affect someone's ability to un- derstand rapid or heavily accented speech. Older adults with a hearing loss may be depressed and socially withdrawn and may not show interest in achieving goals to promote their own well-being