The conversations of life

Hearing loss affects one in seven Australians, but just 16 per cent of us are seeking help

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Yes, you’re hearing us right.

The Campaign for Better Hearing Survey 2019 has found that only 16 per cent of Australians organise a hearing test within six months of noticing a problem, while the world average for the same time period is 48 per cent.

The survey was conducted for this year’s World Hearing Awareness Week and gained responses from 2,697 people across the country.

The results found the main reasons for older Australians not addressing their hearing health concerns were embarrassment (a massive 54 per cent), cost and wanting to ignore the signs of ageing.

But 70 per cent of survey participants also reported that having treatment for hearing issues had improved their quality of life.

With the rate of hearing loss increasing to almost 60 per cent in adults aged over 60, and 74 per cent in those aged over 70, it’s worth seeking help if you think you may need it.

Time to get those ears checked.

Pictured: Campaign For Better Hearing 2019 slogan.

With a background in nursing, Annie has spent over 20 years working in the health industry, including the coordination of medical support for international TV productions and major stadium events, plus education campaigns with a number of national health organisations. In recent years, she has also taken time out of the workforce to be a full-time carer, giving her first-hand experience of the challenges and rewards of this role.


Discussion1 Comment

  1. Many people hide their health issues due to embarrassment, but this is not the solution. It can lead you to more despair if your condition is left unaddressed. Try to seek medical help to treat it and know your options for making hearing easier for you or your loved ones.

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