Many Americans have never had a hearing test, survey reveals

Forty-four percent of Americans aged 45 and up think about their hearing at least occasionally but 79 per cent say they have not had a hearing test in the last year.

The new study, released by Lexie Hearing on World Hearing Day (Friday 3 March), surveyed the hearing health behaviours of 1,000 Americans 45 and older to better understand how they think about and care for their hearing as they age. 

Findings show that hearing is often overlooked, even among those who prioritise other areas of health. While three out of four people say their health is very important, more than a third have never had a hearing test yet undergo other routine preventative screenings

Among the 76 per cent of Americans who say their health is “very important” to them, only 18 per cent have had a hearing test in the past year, compared to 75 per cent who have visited a dentist, 75 per cent who have had an eye exam, and 45 per cent who have done both.

Nic Klopper, CEO of Lexie Hearing, which specialises in over-the-counter hearing aids for people with mild-to-moderate hearing loss, commented: “World Hearing Day represents a moment for everyone to evaluate their hearing and take the steps to treat hearing loss.

“With the FDA’s approval of over-the-counter hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss last year, it’s easier and more affordable than ever to take control of your hearing health so you can get back to enjoying the moments you love with family and friends.”

While hearing aids are now more accessible, two in five (40 per cent) people are still unsure where to get a hearing aid if they need it. More than half (54 per cent) say if they had a hearing issue or concern, they would contact their primary care physician first.

Last October, the FDA approved new regulations for the sale of over-the-counter hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss, removing a substantial barrier to hearing health and giving consumers the flexibility to purchase high-quality devices without a prescription in retail, pharmacy and online stores nationwide.

Hearing health can have an impact on overall health as untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation. Regular hearing aid use on the other hand has been associated with a lower prevalence of depression and has been shown to improve physical and cognitive health, including reducing the risk of dementia.

In recognition of World Hearing Day and to encourage more people to take action toward better hearing health, Lexie Hearing will be donating a portion of all March sales to its Lexie Cares initiative, to help provide better access to hearing worldwide.

“The first step in caring for your hearing is to take a hearing test,” said Klopper. 

“Doing so will help you determine if you have hearing loss, how much and whether or not you could benefit from a hearing aid.”