MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – A recent survey conducted by Miracle-Ear, an Amplifon company, has uncovered significant findings regarding the hearing health of Gen X and Baby Boomer generations. The survey, which sampled 1,000 U.S. adults aged 44 to 78, indicates that a substantial number of individuals in these age groups are experiencing hearing loss and its associated impacts, yet many are not taking proactive steps to address it.
The data reveals that 75% of respondents have encountered hearing difficulties within the past year, and 21% have definitively experienced hearing loss. Despite 84% expressing personal concern about hearing loss and 99% acknowledging the importance of addressing it, there remains a widespread lack of action.
Notably, 57% of respondents have not taken any measures to monitor, test, or address their hearing loss in the past year. This figure rises to 62% among Baby Boomers and stands at 51% for Gen Xers.
Impact of Hearing Loss
The survey also highlights the broader implications of hearing loss. Among those affected, 72% reported that their hearing issues have hindered their ability to participate in family activities. Additionally, hearing loss has impacted mental health, hobbies, work, and finances for many respondents.
Dr. Thomas Tedeschi, Chief Audiology Officer at Miracle-Ear, emphasized the importance of early intervention and continuous management of hearing health to maintain independence and quality of life.
“This recent Miracle-Ear survey reveals a significant concern among Americans: the fear of losing independence due to hearing loss. This highlights the critical need for prevention, early intervention, and continuous management of hearing health. Practicing good volume hygiene, such as being mindful of the volume when using earbuds, is one way to protect hearing proactively. Promptly addressing hearing issues can help individuals maintain their independence and overall quality of life.”
–Dr. Thomas Tedeschi, Ph.D, Au.D, FNAP, Chief Audiology Officer at Miracle-Ear
Despite these concerns, there are encouraging signs. Advances in hearing technology and smartphone connectivity are being embraced by Gen Xers and Boomers, with 75% of respondents believing that hearing loss solutions have improved since their youth. And a 53% majority say there isn’t much of a stigma associated with wearing hearing aids nowadays. However, this drops to 46% among Gen X.
Additional insights from the survey include:
- Being mindful of loud noises this summer: 98% of Gen X/Baby Boomers will experience loud noise this summer, most commonly at concerts or festivals (90%), and during 4th of July fireworks (89%).
- On repeat: A majority (56%) have had to ask friends or family to repeat themselves in conversation. Baby Boomers are more likely to report difficulty hearing a grandchild, while Gen X is more likely to report trouble hearing on a video chat.
- Importance of friends and family: 87% know others who’ve experienced hearing loss, most commonly their parents, reported by a 51% majority of Gen X. Baby Boomers are more likely to report hearing loss of their spouse or siblings.
- First timers: 89% of respondents who haven’t had hearing loss yet are likely to seek professional help once they begin to experience problems.
- Aftercare offerings: 96% say that lifetime free service is particularly impactful and would influence their decision to seek treatment for hearing loss.
About Miracle-Ear®
For more than 75 years, Miracle-Ear® has been a leader in providing innovative hearing solutions that improve lives, relationships, and communities. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Miracle-Ear has a retail network of over 1,500 locally franchised and corporate-owned stores across all 50 U.S. states. Every Miracle-Ear store leverages leading-edge technology to customize hearing solutions that meet each customer’s individual needs, lifestyle, and budget. Miracle-Ear is owned by Amplifon, the global leader in hearing care with over 9,200 points of sale in 25 countries. For more information, visit www.miracle-ear.com.
About Amplifon
Amplifon is the world’s leading group in hearing care services and solutions, empowering people with hearing loss to rediscover all the emotions of sound. Offering innovative and personalized products and services, Amplifon guarantees the best solution for each customer. Founded in Milan, Italy, in 1950, Amplifon is present in 26 countries with approximately 9,700 points of sale and more than 20,300 employees representing over 100 nationalities. It is listed on the Milan Stock Exchange (Euronext Milan) and has annual revenues of over 2 billion euros. For more information, visit corporate.amplifon.com.
Source: Miracle Ear, Amplifon
