Untreated hearing loss is a growing problem worldwide, with over 5% of the world’s population – or 430 million people – living with disabling hearing loss, according to the World Health Organisation.  

In Australia, the Department of Health and Aged Care estimates 3.6 million Australians have some level of hearing loss. That’s 14% of the population! 

What’s even more concerning is this number is estimated to double to about 7.6 million people by 2060. 

Untreated hearing loss can have a range of negative consequences on an individual's life. For example, hearing loss can increase the risk of falls and reduce environmental awareness of sound, which may lead to safety concerns.

Untreated hearing loss can also have an impact on a person’s ability to find work, and affect their social and emotional wellbeing, including a higher risk of low self-esteem, low confidence, memory loss and depression. Many people will also avoid social situations.  

Increased risk of other serious comorbidities, such as accelerated cognitive decline have also been associated with hearing loss. In fact, a report by the Hearing Care Industry Association found that older adults with hearing loss had a 24% increased risk of incident cognitive impairment than those whose hearing was within normal limits. 

If you think you may be experiencing hearing loss, book an appointment with Audika Hearing Clinic today and speak to one of their hearing experts.