Most people wait 7 to 10 years between first noticing hearing loss and seeking help. That's a decade of missed conversations, strained relationships, and — according to research published in The Lancet — avoidable cognitive decline. The signs are easy to explain away. In this article, Dr. Jonell Block walks through the five most common patterns she sees in her Spokane practice, and explains why recognizing them sooner is one of the most important things you can do for your brain, your relationships, and your quality of life.