Hearing loss is a very common problem and appears to be increasing. It can seriously affect one’s quality of life. Various causes can result in hearing loss such as exposue to loud and continuous noise, use of certain medications, family history of hearing loss, childhood infections such as meningitis and a history of damage to the eardrum.
If you notice that your daily activities and situation at your work is significantly affected by your ability to hear, then you should consider applying for social security benefits.
Your medical record should show that you are under treatment by a hearing specialist and include hearing test results by an audiologist. These tests are very important since they show the degree of hearing loss in one or both ears. Also, your treating doctor will state whether you need to wear hearing aids. If when wearing hearing aids you are able to hear fairly normally, then obviously you would be denied benefits. However, if you still have considerable difficulty understanding others then your chances are improved. Doctors at the state will review your records and decide whether you meet the criteria for allowing or denying benefits.
The state has somewhat complicated rules as to whether one is allowed or denied benefits; They consider your age and all past occupations. Also, obtaining help from an attorney who deals in Social Security disability cases is very helpful in increasing your chances for approval.