Hearing Loss Is More Common Than You Think—So Why Aren’t More People Getting Help?
Hearing loss becomes increasingly common as we age, yet millions of older adults continue to live with untreated hearing loss.
Recent research found that 65% of adults age 71 and older have some degree of hearing loss, and by age 90, that number rises to more than 96%. Despite how common it is, only 29% of older adults with hearing loss wear hearing aids.
Many people delay treatment because they don’t recognize the signs of hearing loss, believe it’s simply a normal part of aging, or feel they can “get by” without hearing aids.
Unfortunately, untreated hearing loss can affect far more than just your ability to hear conversations—it can also impact your overall health and quality of life.
What the Research Found
Researchers analyzed hearing test results and hearing aid usage among more than 2,800 Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older.
The study revealed:
- Nearly two-thirds of adults age 71 and older had mild to severe hearing loss.
- By age 90, almost everyone studied had measurable hearing loss.
- Only 29% of those with hearing loss reported wearing hearing aids.
These findings highlight an important public health concern: hearing loss is extremely common, yet many people never seek treatment.
Why Treating Hearing Loss Matters
Hearing well plays an important role in staying healthy, active, and connected as we age. When hearing loss goes untreated, it may increase the risk of several health concerns.
Increased Loneliness and Social Isolation
Difficulty hearing conversations can make social situations frustrating, causing many people to withdraw from family gatherings, community activities, and everyday interactions.
Over time, this isolation has been linked to higher risks of heart disease, cognitive decline, depression, and premature death.
Hearing aids can help you stay connected with the people and activities you enjoy, making conversations easier and helping you maintain an active social life.
Higher Risk of Cognitive Decline
Research continues to show a strong connection between hearing loss and cognitive health.
When the brain must work harder to process unclear sounds, it has fewer resources available for memory and thinking. Over time, untreated hearing loss has also been associated with faster brain changes related to aging.
Encouragingly, studies suggest that hearing aids may significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults who are at increased risk.
Greater Risk of Falls and Injuries
Hearing contributes to our awareness of the world around us. When hearing is reduced, it becomes more difficult to detect approaching vehicles, warning sounds, or changes in our environment.
Research has also found that untreated hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of falls and accidental injuries.
By improving environmental awareness, hearing aids may help support better balance, confidence, and independence.
Better Hearing Supports Better Living
Treating hearing loss isn’t simply about hearing conversations more clearly—it’s about protecting your health, maintaining your independence, and continuing to enjoy the moments that matter most.
Whether it’s hearing birds outside your window, laughing with friends, or listening to a grandchild tell a story, better hearing helps you stay connected to the people and experiences you love.
Schedule Your Hearing Evaluation
If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing—or if family members have commented that you may not be hearing as well as you once did—it may be time for a professional hearing evaluation.
Our team provides comprehensive, painless hearing evaluations and will help you understand your results, answer your questions, and recommend the best treatment options for your lifestyle and hearing needs.
Take the first step toward better hearing and better health. Schedule an appointment with our office today.