BRITS ‘IN DENIAL’ OVER HEARING LOSS — HALF GO WITHOUT TREATMENT DESPITE LIFE-CHANGING BENEFITS

Millions of Brits are ignoring hearing loss, even though hearing aids could dramatically improve their lives. That’s according to new UK research* that reveals just 49.5% of people with hearing loss use hearing aids, leaving around half struggling on without support.

With 8.3% of the UK population affected, experts warn the issue is both widespread and under-treated.

Quality of life

Despite clear benefits, many people delay treatment, often for years.

Most hearing aid users admit they waited between 1 to 3 years after noticing hearing loss before taking action.

And when they finally do, the results can be eye-opening:

· 39% say hearing aids work better than expected, with another 47% saying they meet expectations

· 82% are satisfied overall

· 96% say hearing aids improve their quality of life at least sometimes

· 71% say they wish they had got them sooner

Cost and embarrassment

So why are so many people going without? The study found a mix of practical and emotional barriers, including:

· Feeling embarrassed or not wanting to admit hearing loss. 32% say they do not admit their hearing loss in public and 30% cite embarrassment about wearing hearing aids

· Concerns about cost. 35% don’t believe they can afford a hearing aid

Other reasons include believing they can still ‘hear well enough’, thinking their hearing loss isn’t serious, and worries about how hearing aids perform in noisy places.

Even among those who already own hearing aids, some don’t use them regularly — with 67% of non-users citing discomfort.

Hearing technology brand, Ceretone, whose hearing aids are stocked at Currys, says more affordable, comfortable and accessible options could help tackle some of these

concerns. Their ready-to-wear hearing aids are available from £129.99 and can be bought without a prescription.

Treating hearing loss can be life-changing

Ben Yang, audiologist at Ceretone, said:

“A lot of people put off dealing with hearing loss because it creeps up slowly, but by the time they notice it, it’s already affecting conversations, confidence and daily life.

“The reality is that treating hearing loss can be life changing. We see people regain confidence, reconnect socially and feel less exhausted once they start using hearing aids. The earlier people act, the sooner they start to reap the benefits.”

Confidence boost and better mental health

The impact goes far beyond hearing. People who use hearing aids report:

· Better social life (71%)

· Improved mental and emotional health (45%)

· Better performance at work (27%)

· Less fatigue (19%)

· Confidence and personal safety also get a major boost, with 70% saying they feel safer and more confident moving around a city

Major impact on careers and salary

The research highlights a strong link between hearing health and career progression. 92% of working hearing aid users say their devices help them in their job, and around 1in 3 believe hearing aids enable them to stay in employment longer.

There is also widespread concern about untreated hearing loss at work. Many believe people with untreated hearing loss are less likely to be promoted, get the job they deserve, and be under salaried.

Hidden toll of untreated hearing loss

The research highlights the wider consequences of leaving hearing loss untreated.

Compared to hearing aid users, people without hearing aids are significantly more likely to struggle with mental health and daily fatigue. Among those with more severe hearing loss, 60% of non-users report a very low probability of good mental wellbeing compared

to 25% of hearing aid users, while 15% show a very high probability of depression versus just 3% of users.

Untreated hearing loss is also linked to greater exhaustion, with non-users more likely to say they feel physically and mentally drained in the evenings.

The data also suggests fears about stigma may be misplaced. 70% of hearing aid users say they are never mocked or rejected for wearing them. In contrast, people with untreated hearing loss are more likely to experience negative social reactions, with 45% of non hearing aid wearers saying they are regularly or occasionally made fun of because of their hearing loss.

A wake-up call

The data points to a clear missed opportunity, with large numbers of people putting off treatment despite the clear benefits once they do act. The help is out there. Don’t leave it too late.