How Freedom Hearing Center Is Addressing the Overlooked Dangers of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is one of the most overlooked health issues in the United States. It affects millions of people, yet often goes undiagnosed and untreated—quietly interfering with communication, relationships and quality of life. Because the signs are subtle at first, many don’t realize how much they’ve lost until it starts to impact their daily routines.
Far from a minor inconvenience, untreated hearing loss is linked to serious health risks, including cognitive decline, social isolation and an increased risk of falls. Despite its prevalence, it’s still widely misunderstood and frequently ignored.
Freedom Hearing Center, a Maryland-based audiology practice with five locations, is working to change that. By providing expert, compassionate care and advocating for better access to hearing services, the center is helping patients of all ages take the first step toward improved hearing—and better overall health.
The Silent Threat
Hearing loss is more than a communication issue—it’s a growing public health concern with far-reaching consequences. While many people may delay seeking help due to stigma or lack of awareness, untreated hearing loss has been linked to a range of serious medical and emotional conditions that can significantly impact quality of life.
Studies from Johns Hopkins Medicine have shown that older adults with hearing loss are more likely to experience cognitive decline and are at a higher risk for developing dementia. In fact, research shows that hearing loss may account for up to a third of dementia cases among older adults.
Social withdrawal is also common, as individuals who struggle to hear often avoid conversations, group settings and social activities—factors that contribute to loneliness and depression. Hearing loss is also associated with a threefold increase in the risk of accidental falls, according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).
“There’s a greater risk of falls, a correlation with cognitive decline, and also social isolation—these are just some of the comorbidities associated with hearing loss,” said Dr. Rebecca Jahed, clinical audiologist and founder of Freedom Hearing Center, which serves patients of all ages across Maryland. She also notes growing evidence that links hearing loss with chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, making early detection and treatment even more critical.
Who Is Affected & Why It Matters
Hearing loss doesn’t discriminate—it can affect anyone, regardless of age. While it’s often associated with aging, people of all backgrounds and life stages are impacted, from newborns and school-aged children to working adults and seniors.
“We find that there is no typical patient in hearing healthcare,” said Pamela McIntyre, Director of Operations at Freedom Hearing Center. “Hearing loss can occur at any age and as a result of genetics, age, medical conditions, or even an accident.”
Nearly 15 percent of American adults report some trouble hearing. For older adults, the numbers are even more striking: approximately one in three people over age 65 has hearing loss. In Maryland, recent public health data shows that more than 900,000 residents are affected, including thousands of children and young adults.
Several factors can contribute to hearing loss, including genetics, aging, prolonged noise exposure, trauma, chronic illnesses like diabetes or hypertension, and certain infections or medications. Regardless of the cause, untreated hearing loss can have serious consequences—not just for communication, but for a person’s overall well-being.
Raising awareness about hearing health and promoting early detection is essential—not only for preserving hearing but also for improving quality of life.
Freedom Hearing Center’s Holistic Approach
Founded in 2014 by Dr. Rebecca Jahed, Freedom Hearing Center was born from a powerful patient encounter. After treating Charlie Bucy, a veteran whose life was dramatically improved by accessible hearing care, Dr. Jahed felt called to create a clinic that served not just ears—but people. That inspiration became the foundation for a practice built on faith, compassion and community connection.
“Our mission and vision go together. We truly believe that people deserve personalized and professional hearing healthcare, excellent customer service, and respect from their caregivers,” said Dr. Jahed. “When you have a team of caregivers that truly care about helping people, it is easy to fulfill our mission daily in hopes to one day see our vision come to fruition.”
Freedom Hearing Center’s philosophy goes beyond clinical care. The team emphasizes trust, respect and accessibility at every stage of a patient’s journey. Whether someone is a first-time visitor or returning for a routine checkup, they are welcomed like family. The staff serves a wide range of patients, offering services across the lifespan.
“Our patients are anywhere between newborn to 102 years old,” said McIntyre. “We take pride in being a practice that people can count on at every stage of life.”
The Center offers more than just hearing aids. The clinic provides comprehensive audiological services tailored to each patient’s needs. These include:
- Hearing evaluations for all ages, from infants to seniors
- Cochlear implant evaluations and mapping
- Testing and treatment for tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Fittings, repairs, and ongoing support for hearing aids
- Financing options to ease cost barriers
The Center is also deeply involved in the community. Through initiatives like the Charlie Bucy Project and partnerships with organizations like the Lions Club, Freedom Hearing Center helps connect underserved individuals with the care they need.
Importantly, the clinic has not raised prices in over five years—a testament to its commitment to making hearing care affordable and equitable.
Take Your First Step to Improved Hearing
Hearing loss is more than just a nuisance—it’s a serious medical issue with wide-ranging impacts on physical, mental and emotional health. Left unaddressed, it can quietly erode quality of life, relationships and long-term well-being.
Now is the perfect time to reconnect with the sounds that matter most. With expanded insurance coverage and expert guidance every step of the way, Freedom Hearing Center is here to help you navigate your hearing journey with confidence and care.
“If we could give any advice, it would be to start by scheduling a hearing test with a reliable hearing healthcare professional. People should not be afraid to explore their options,” said McIntyre.
Whether you’re noticing changes in your own hearing or concerned about a loved one, early intervention is key. Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. A simple hearing test can be the first step toward improved health and stronger connections.
