According to research, the consequences of hearing loss have proven to affect social, emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of people regardless of whether their hearing loss is mild or severe. It has been proven to affect cognitive abilities, short-term memory, and increase the likelihood of dementia and Alzheimer's. Those with untreated hearing loss are more likely to suffer from depression, feelings of paranoia, isolation, anxiety, and social phobias. Relationships are affected and divorce rates increase. Emotional stability, sense of control, balance, and earning potential  decrease. "I cannot overstate the importance of treating hearing loss as early as possible." -Sergei Kochkin, PhD, Executive Director of the Better Hearing Institute.