Over a third of over-60s have moderate to severe hearing loss, study finds
More than a third of over-60s (34%) struggle with moderate or severe hearing loss, according to research – leaving them feeling annoyed (36%), frustrated (60%), and old (25%).
The poll of 1,000 adults, aged 60 and above, found that three in ten say their hearing problems have had a negative affect on their social life, as they miss out on family events – like grandchildren's nativity plays.
And one in five find it hard to go shopping, as 29% struggle to hear in supermarkets. Other establishments where they commonly have this problem include pubs (42%), and restaurants (43%) – while one in ten (9%) even find it difficult to hear in banks.
However, eight in ten of those polled feel it is vitally important that they still have access to banks, post offices, and health services – with one in five worried about the closure of high-street stores.
For 41%, this is because they believe they would struggle to cope with accessing online or telephone services – as one in four admit they can't manage basic tasks, such as taking a phone call.
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The research was commissioned by Scrivens Opticians and Hearing Care, which recommends a free hearing check for anyone over the age of 50.
As a result, a quarter can't even manage basic tasks, like taking a phone call (Scrivens Opticians)A spokesman said: “Our research shows that despite the changing shape of our high street, there is a need for in-person services to support the whole community.
“Communication is vital, and we want to make sure everyone has the ability to confidently express themselves – no matter their age or hearing ability. You shouldn’t have to miss a moment just because you might struggle with your hearing.”
The research also revealed that half of those with hearing problems (49%) said these had developed between the ages of 51-65.
More than half of those with hearing loss said the first sign of it was having to ask people to repeat themselves, while 38% said it was others noticing the TV volume was creeping up – and 29% had been accused of selective hearing by a loved one.
Consequently, in a bid to hide their embarrassment, four in ten would just nod along and pretend they can hear everything.
It also emerged that 4% of those polled, via OnePoll, could no longer enjoy listening to their favourite music.
The spokesman for Scrivens Opticians and Hearing Care, which offers free hearing checks, and is marking Hearing Awareness Month in November, added: “Better hearing can improve your personal relationships, reduce stress, increase your motivation, and improve your overall peace of mind.
“Our research also revealed most people are unaware of the link between untreated hearing loss and dementia – so it’s never been more important to seek out help and support.
“The fact that so many people over 60 are impacted by their hearing is something we want to help with and rectify.”
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