National Council on Aging Study

One out of every 10 people has hearing loss. Of those with hearing loss, 37% are over age 65 and 50% over age 70

The National Council on Aging did a study surveying 2,069 hearing impaired people and 1,710 friends or family members of hearing impaired people. Of those who were hearing impaired, 50% wore hearing aids and 50% did not. The goal was to compare the effects of hearing loss of those with and without hearing aids on the quality of life.

Here are the results:

Surveyed 2,069 hearing impaired And 1710 friends or family members 50% wore hearing aids and 50% did not Goal was to compare effects of hearing loss of those with and without hearing aids on the quality of life

The BAD NEWS:

Untreated Hearing Loss is NOT a "harmless condition"
Hearing Loss is a serious health issue
Hearing Loss affects ALL age groups
Hearing Loss is associated with:
--Emotional, mental & social well-being
--Depression, sadness, worry, anxiety
--Emotional instability and insecurity
--Phobias, withdrawal, isolation
--Lessoned health status, lower self-esteem, etc.
--Interpersonal relationships
--Paranoia, denial, worry, anxiety
--Avoiding social events

THE GOOD NEWS:

Those treated with hearing aids obtained significant benefits!
Better relationships with families
Improved mental health
Better feelings about themselves
Greater independence and security
Better social interactions
Significantly fewer symptoms of paranoia, anger and frustration