Believe it or not, hearing loss has many negative side affects other than missing out on conversation. A recent study by the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) has shown that on average, an individual with hearing loss can lose up to $30,000 in annual wages, depending on how much hearing loss they have. As a whole, this contributes to $26 billion in unrealized federal taxes and a loss of income of $176 billion for those underemployed due to untreated hearing loss. In addition, the study revealed a significant correlation between unemployment and hearing loss, with a 15.6% unemployment rate for those with severe hearing losses.
With these staggering statistics, you would think that hearing loss treatments would be high on the priority list, however, it remains one of the most unaddressed medical conditions in the country. Less than half of individuals with severe hearing losses actually wear hearing aids, and, unfortunately, less than 1/6 of individuals that underwent a physical exam within the last year reported having a hearing test or screening by a medical professional. Executive Director of the BHI, Sergei Kochkin, PhD, stated that the study indicates that untreated hearing loss can lead to limitations of productivity, success, and ultimately, earnings.
The good news is that the risk of income loss due to a mild hearing impairment can be reduced 90 to 100% simply with the use of hearing aids. For employees with moderate to severe hearing loss, the risk can be reduced 65 to 77%.
Kochkin outlined steps that employers should take to encourage hearing healthcare in the workplace. He noted that it is important to create an environment in which hearing loss and the use of hearing aids is acceptable; with stereotypes and stigmas eliminated. He also recommended that corporate insurance plans should cover hearing aids, and employers should encourage the use of a flexible spending account for hearing aid purchase. Lastly, Kochkin stated that it is imperative for employers and human resources departments to create a work environment that is conducive to success for hearing impaired employees.
To assist employees with hearing loss, the BHI currently is offering an online hearing screening in which one can determine in seconds if they need further evaluation by a qualified professional. Visit www.hearingcheck.org to see if you should pursue a more extensive evaluation by a hearing healthcare professional.
SOURCE: Better Hearing Institute
