“I’ll deal with it later.” How many of us use that response for any number of situations in life? In some instances, the consequences may be minor or nonexistent, but in others there could be truly serious, negative outcomes.

Take, for example, hearing loss. For many people, it can be easy to shrug off the early signs of minor hearing loss as simply part of getting older. Even if and when it becomes apparent that a hearing aid is necessary, some people might put off a decision because they don’t want to rely on technology, don’t want to draw attention to the problem or they think it will cost too much.

I can tell you one thing: Ignoring the early signs of hearing loss can wind up costing you more than you expect.

Hearing loss is the third-most prevalent chronic health problem among older adults, and only about 20 percent of those who could benefit from treatment actually seek it, according to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

Living with hearing loss brings more than just challenges in hearing speech. A 1999 study by the National Council on Aging found markedly higher rates of depression, anxiety and other psychological disorders among those with hearing loss who were not using hearing aids. Other studies have found links between hearing loss and cognitive decline and increased risk of dementia.

The physical toll of these problems can result in higher medical expenses, negative effects on relationships and shortened life expectancy.

For those still in their working years, untreated hearing loss can also have an effect on income. Hearing loss can take a toll on one’s career, as hearing is a key to communication and safety in the workplace.

A Better Hearing Institute survey in 2010 found those with severe hearing loss had double the unemployment rate of their peers with good hearing. A BHI survey of 40,000 households also showed a $14,000 annual income difference between those with mild and severe hearing loss.

It is true that purchasing a hearing aid can be a significant expense, and health insurance might not always cover the cost. That said, when weighed against impacted earning potential or a host of physical and mental problems, an investment in hearing aids should be viewed as a necessary and worthwhile expense.

You don’t need to navigate these decisions alone. Just as it is important to have your hearing screened by a qualified audiologist at the first sign of hearing loss, it is wise to seek the advice of a trusted hearing professional. They can advise you on what type of hearing aid would be best for you, how to save money on your hearing aids and other steps you can take to care for your hearing.

Your hearing health is important, and caring for it now is less expensive than dealing with a mountain of other problems later.

Nola Aronson, M.A., CCC-A, is owner and founder of Advanced Audiology and has been fitting hearing aids for more than 30 years. In 2014, she received the Community Champion at the SCV Leadership Awards.