As individuals and organisations around the UK take part in activities to mark Loneliness Awareness Week 2023, BIHIMA explores the impact that hearing loss can have on levels of loneliness and isolation.
Loneliness and social isolation are widespread issues and can affect a person at any age. A 2022 study by HARTMANN found that a proportion of every age group often (or always) felt lonely. Similarly, the BBC’s Loneliness Experiment found that 40% of young people now feel lonely vs 27% of over 75s. While there are many factors that impact a person’s propensity for loneliness, there is a significant body of research which suggests that hearing impairment can accentuate social isolation. With evidence from the National Institute of Health Research connecting loneliness and depression, it’s clear that this is a problem with widespread repercussions.
So, what can be done to combat loneliness in those with hearing impairment and how can we improve people’s social opportunities?
"Hearing loss can affect many different aspects of a person’s life, and no one should have to feel isolated or lonely because of their hearing."
Hearing loss and loneliness
Hearing loss can have an enormous impact on a person’s day to day life. It can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, reduced career opportunities and difficulty navigating daily activities. The ripple effects of these symptoms can impact not only the individual but those around them, too. This is why it is crucial for people with hearing loss to seek treatment sooner rather than later.
The most recent UK EuroTrak data revealed that 95% of people wearing hearing instruments said it had improved their quality of life. This information cannot be underestimated: those who lack the opportunity to converse and connect in social situations are more likely to avoid them entirely. The ramifications of this stretch even further than loneliness, too, because those who have to constantly use their cognitive resources to understand what other people are saying are at far higher risk of cognitive decline such as that experienced by people living with dementia.
Eurotrak data also found that hearing instrument usage positively linked to various quality of life factors that could impact and improve an individual’s ability to interact, socialise and connect with others. These included:
- 63% of respondents felt that hearing instruments improved their overall ability to communicate more effectively in most situations.
- 54% found that they could participate more in group activities.
- 52% experienced improvements to their social life
Engaging with people through communication and socialising are vital to our overall health and wellbeing – people need to feel a deep sense of connection with others to minimise those feelings of loneliness. Hearing well is a crucial way in which we can ensure people and communities stay connected.
A study in the American Journal of Audiology found a significant decline in perceptions of loneliness following four to six weeks of hearing aid use. Speaking of the impact of hearing technology on loneliness and social isolation, BIHIMA Chairman Paul Surridge said:
“We know that communication is far more challenging for those with hearing loss. We also know that people with hearing impairment who do not use hearing instruments are at higher risk of depression and feel far more tired in the evenings. By having your hearing checked and making the necessary adjustments, including having hearing instruments properly fitted and regularly using them, people can improve their confidence in communicating with others as well as their physical and mental capacity to socialise regularly.”
How can you support someone living with hearing loss?
In support of Loneliness Awareness Week, BIHIMA wants to shine a light on what others can do to make interactions easier, less stressful and more appealing for those living with hearing loss.
Reassuringly, the UK Eurotrak study found that two of the biggest contributing factors to someone taking that step towards treating their hearing loss was support from an audiologist and their spouse. This shows that people connected to someone with hearing loss have an influential role to play.
Every person who suffers with hearing loss or deafness will have a different experience, and there are several ways you can support a friend or loved one:
- Offer to accompany them to a hearing test or instrument fitting.
- Don’t say ‘it doesn’t matter’ if they don’t hear you the first time – it does matter!
- Maintain eye contact wherever possible.
- Speak clearly and at a normal speed.
- If you are in a busy or noisy place, find somewhere quieter for your conversation.
- Don’t be afraid to ask how you can communicate better with them.
Paul said: “Hearing loss can affect many different aspects of a person’s life, and no one should have to feel isolated or lonely because of their hearing. Taking early action on hearing loss can help prevent these issues, which is why we are calling for free hearing checks from the age of 40. By raising awareness and helping people access the support they need for hearing loss, we can help reduce issues like loneliness and enrich people’s lives.”
To find out more about Loneliness Awareness Week and Marmalade Trust – the charity running the campaign – visit their website.
