To mark World Hearing Day (3rd March), Specsavers Dublin has released new data highlighting the critical link between good hearing health and strong personal relationships.
New research reveals the significant strain hearing loss can place on communication and family connections.
With one in six Irish adults experiencing some form of hearing loss and many waiting an average of ten years before seeking help, Specsavers underscores the important need for early detection and intervention.
As part of the ‘The Listening Line’ campaign, recently launched in partnership with renowned broadcaster Joe Duffy, Specsavers has released new research revealing the significant strain hearing loss can place on communication and family connections including:
- 73% of respondents experience some form of miscommunication due to hearing issues, with 36% admitting to guessing or pretending to know what has been said during a conversation on a weekly basis.
- 29% of the nation has had arguments with their partner, family, or friends due to mishearing conversations.
- The emotional toll is significant, with 27% experiencing personal frustration and 28% acknowledging causing frustration or impatience in others.
- 82% of people ask their close family members to repeat something at least once a week, and 73% report difficulty understanding conversations with close family due to their hearing.
- Over 1 in 4 of the nation believe their hearing loss has caused their partner, family, or friend to feel frustrated or impatient with them.
Reflecting on the campaign’s findings, Joe Duffy shared,“This World Hearing Day, we need to be honest about the real impact hearing loss has on our relationships. The stories I’ve heard through ‘The Listening Line’ with Specsavers were eye opening with many feeling frustrated by the arguments caused by mishearing and missed moments with families and friends. Far too many are suffering in silence, and there’s simply no need! Because here’s the thing, Specsavers offers a free hearing check, right across the country. It’s a quick, straightforward test, nothing to worry about. So there really is no excuse to wait. Remember, looking after your hearing isn’t just for you, it’s for everyone you love.”
Despite the impact, Specsavers research reveals a significant gap in prioritising hearing health as over half (58%) of adults have never had a hearing check, despite nearly three quarters (69%) admitting they are terrified of losing their hearing. Furthermore, it emerged that nearly a third (33%) have previously been told to get their hearing checked, but 15% of these never did.
Orla Walsh, Specsavers Ireland Audiology Chairperson, said, “On World Hearing Day, we want to reinforce the message that good hearing is fundamental not just to overall well-being, but also to our connections with loved ones.
“Our findings clearly illustrate the impact hearing loss has on daily communication and relationships, leading to frustration, arguments, and even social isolation for many.
“It’s truly disheartening that so many individuals are silently struggling or delaying seeking help.”
Early detection and intervention are key, and Specsavers Dublin advises individuals not to wait.
Recognising changes in hearing and seeking support can make a world of difference for individuals and their loved ones.
Specsavers Dublin’s dedicated audiology teams are passionate about providing expert, accessible care, and strongly encourage everyone, especially those over 40 or experiencing any changes in their hearing, to prioritise their hearing health and book a free hearing check.
Specsavers Dublin offers comprehensive hearing services, delivered by highly qualified audiology professionals.
These services include expert hearing checks, advanced hearing devices tailored to individual needs, custom hearing protection, and professional wax removal.
If you or your loved one are struggling with your hearing, book a free hearing check at Specsavers.
For more information, visit www.specsavers.ie/hearing