A new study from TympaHealth has revealed concerning insights into ear and hearing health among adults, highlighting significant social and psychological barriers preventing crucial ear and hearing care interventions.
The study surveyed over 1,000 representative adults aged 18 to 65 and older, uncovering that more than one in three people (35%) have experienced hearing loss. Over half of the respondents (56%) stated that hearing loss had negatively impacted their mental health, while 35% of participants admitted to never having their hearing checked.
The research identified several key obstacles preventing people from seeking hearing care:
- Embarrassment emerged as a primary deterrent, with 31% of respondents expressing concerns about the potential need to wear hearing aids. This concern was more pronounced among younger adults, with 38% of 18–24-year-olds and 25–34-year-olds stating they would be worried about this, compared to 23% of 45–54-year-olds and 19% of 55–64-year-olds.
- Social stigma surrounding hearing loss and aging was another barrier, with 23% of respondents citing it as a reason for avoiding treatment. This number rose to 30% among those aged 25–34.
The study also highlighted the significant impact hearing difficulties have on social interactions and mental well-being. The majority of respondents (53%) either occasionally or often avoid social situations due to hearing difficulties, suggesting that these barriers have a profound effect on mental health.
“Our research findings show that ear and hearing health is being overlooked by many due to a variety of factors, but perhaps most concerning is that people are worried about the social implications of addressing their ear and hearing health. It’s a myth that ear and hearing health only impacts older people. It can affect people at any age. Early and timely intervention makes a significant difference, preventing long-term issues such as poor mental health and cognitive decline, and enabling people to fulfil their potential. We are committed to raising awareness and providing the critical assessment and support needed to help young people take charge of their hearing health, while alleviating pressure on the healthcare system.”
–Dr. Krishan Ramdoo, CEO and Founder of TympaHealth, and an ENT surgeon
Lack of Awareness Among Public
Additionally, the study uncovered a concerning lack of awareness among UK adults about the long-term health risks associated with unaddressed hearing loss. More than half of the respondents (53%) were unaware of the potential brain health implications of untreated hearing loss. The lack of awareness was particularly evident among younger generations, with 57% of 18–24-year-olds and 63% of 25–34-year-olds reporting they were unaware of these risks.
This lack of awareness among younger adults is particularly concerning, as addressing ear and hearing health early can help reduce mental health difficulties and may help prevent cognitive decline. Over half of all respondents (53%) were unaware that hearing loss could be linked to dementia, and over a quarter of young people (28%) held the same misconception.
According to The Lancet, hearing impairment (7%) and social isolation (5%) are among the greatest risk factors for developing conditions such as dementia. Research from the University of Oxford also found that building cognitive resilience at a young age could help the brain better fight off conditions like dementia in later life.
The survey also revealed that waiting list durations were a key barrier for 28% of people seeking ear and hearing health care. Furthermore, over a quarter of respondents (28%) were unaware that hearing loss could be checked at their local pharmacy.
“These findings underscore the urgent need to destigmatise hearing health and create supportive, people-friendly environments that encourage auditory well-being. This new research serves as a critical wake-up call, emphasising the importance of early hearing protection and timely interventions. By addressing the psychological and social barriers, NHS and private sector healthcare providers, along with community leaders, can help adults maintain their ear and hearing health and quality of life.”
–Professor Adrian Davis OBE, Technical Advisor for the World Health Organization (WHO)
About TympaHealth:
TympaHealth is a team of doctors and technology experts united by a mission to help the world achieve better ear and hearing health. Working with a broad range of healthcare providers including Pharmacy, Care, Audiology, GP’s amongst others, The Tympa Platform equips them with the ability to perform ear examinations and wax removal and a hearing check TympaHealth was founded by Dr.Krish Ramdoo, international speaker, researcher, educator, and clinical entrepreneur committed to helping communities more easily achieve ear and hearing health. After starting his medical career at Oxford University hospitals, he went on to become an Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon in London, and then registering his PhD at University College of London. From there he became keenly aware of the impact of hearing loss and the limitations of the current care system.
Source: TympaHealth
