Today, more than 1.5 billion people experience some degree of hearing loss. And by 2050 this number is set to grow to 2.5 billion.
It’s also estimated that 5% of the global population – 430 million people – require care and rehabilitation to address their hearing loss, which if untreated could impact their quality of life.
It’s clear that a growing number of people with hearing loss are being untreated or underserved. A reality which is impacting both the health of individuals and society.
For audiology experts, hearing loss isn’t simply an inconvenience of getting older. It’s a public health issue where we can all make a significant impact.
Hearing loss can be a challenging and frustrating reality. Not only for those who have it, but also for the loved ones and friends around them. And its impact can go far beyond a declining sense.
Unfortunately, many people will underestimate the effect of hearing loss, often considering it a sensory problem or just an everyday nuisance.
But we know that hearing loss can lead to social isolation, loneliness and depression, physical problems with balance, cognitive decline – even a greater risk of dementia.
Want to know more about hearing loss and quality of life? Head to our special article series where we put the spotlight on the potential health consequences of an untreated hearing loss.
The good news for hearing loss is that some cases are preventable, while others can be addressed through early diagnosis, good hearing care, and suitable hearing strategies.
In fact, most hearing care solutions and strategies come with virtually no health risks and can only have a positive impact on our ability to communicate and engage with others.
At LISTEN TO THISTM we want to get the story out there that an underserved population with hearing loss is a real opportunity to alleviate this health burden and increase quality of life.
Johns Hopkins Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health: Hearing 101
Johns Hopkins Medicine: The hidden risks of hearing loss
National Institute of Health, USA: Hearing aids slow cognitive decline in people at high risk
National Health Service, UK: Hearing loss and dementia
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