Hearing loss is ‘key contributory factor’ to loneliness

P R E S S  R E L E A S E The UK is currently experiencing an epidemic of loneliness with the Government reporting that around 200,000 older people haven’t had a conversation with a friend or relative in a month and a significant contributory factor to social isolation is hearing loss according to the audiologists. Sam Rossiter, director at Imperial Hearing said,

“More than 40% of people over 50 years old have hearing loss, rising to 71% of people over the age of 70 years old. When people begin to suffer from hearing issues, they start to self-manage the situation rather than asking for help which eventually leads them to avoiding social situations. As we approach Christmas it is even more crucial that people aren’t left on their own and can enjoy the festive celebrations without the confusion and isolation that hearing loss causes.”

Evidence suggests that people wait on average 10 years before seeking help for their hearing loss and only 40% of people who need hearing aids have them. Susan Smith, a patient with the Imperial Hearing Group suffered from labyrinthitis earlier this year that affected her balance and caused a sudden, permanent hearing loss,

“It took away my quality of life. The loss was so sudden that my body could not adjust. I couldn’t go out on my own, I couldn’t drive, I couldn’t even walk across the room on my own and was completely dependent on my husband. I quickly stopped attending my normal social events and gradually saw friends and family less and less; it became very lonely.”

Susan was fitted with a hearing aid after visiting her local Imperial Hearing centre, and both her hearing and balance significantly improved. The good news is that in the vast majority of cases, hearing technology can help considerably and prevent people from becoming withdrawn and depressed. Sam Rossiter concluded:

“We urge anyone who suspects that they, or someone they care for, has hearing issues to visit their local audiologists as soon as they can especially as we approach the festive season. Christmas is all about family gatherings, parties with friends, children’s school nativities, carol concerts and pantomimes. But for millions of people it is a time that means isolation, confusion and feeling left out – all because they are not able to hear clearly.” 

Hearing health checks are available at all Imperial Hearing Centres across the Midlands, South West, Wales and South Coast. Get your hearing checked in time for Christmas. Find your nearest centre by visiting http://imperialhearing.com/hearing-centres/.