Thousands of people in Sussex could be living with untreated hearing loss, despite new research suggesting hearing aids can dramatically improve quality of life.
The study found just 49.5% of people with hearing loss use hearing aids, leaving around half without support. With 8.3% of the UK population affected, that could mean around 141,800 people in Sussex are living with hearing loss.
Despite the benefits, many people delay getting help. Most hearing aid users said they waited between one and three years after first noticing hearing loss before taking action.
Researchers found 82% of hearing aid users are satisfied overall, while 96% said hearing aids improve their quality of life at least sometimes. A further 71% said they wished they had got them sooner.
The study also highlighted barriers including embarrassment, cost and concerns about wearing hearing aids in public. It found 32% of people do not admit their hearing loss in public, 30% feel embarrassed about wearing hearing aids, and 35% do not believe they can afford them.
Ben Yang, audiologist at Ceretone, said:
“A lot of people put off dealing with hearing loss because it creeps up slowly, but by the time they notice it, it’s already affecting conversations, confidence and daily life.
“The reality is that treating hearing loss can be life changing. We see people regain confidence, reconnect socially and feel less exhausted once they start using hearing aids. The earlier people act, the sooner they start to reap the benefits.”
The research also found hearing aids can support confidence, mental wellbeing and working life. Among users, 71% reported a better social life, 45% said their mental and emotional health improved, and 92% of working users said hearing aids helped them in their job.
The findings suggest untreated hearing loss may also increase fatigue, isolation and poor mental wellbeing.
Researchers say the message is clear: support is available, and people should not leave it too late.
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