It’s true, there’s a special day or week for most health issues these days. But for me, World Hearing Day and Hearing Awareness Week (1-7 March), have always been a chance to shine a light on a very common issue affecting thousands of people around the world.
World Hearing Day is held on 3 March each year. Its aim is to raise awareness on how to prevent hearing loss and to promote ear and hearing care across the world.
It coincides with Hearing Awareness Week in Australia.
Hearing Loss: a few key facts
The Hearing Awareness Week & World Hearing Day website reminds us about a few important facts about hearing loss:
- Hearing loss costs Australia $15 billion a year in health system costs and lost productivity
- Hearing loss affects 70% of people over the age of 70 and it has a huge impact on the quality of life
- It’s more common than heart disease, cancer and diabetes
- Every year, 500,000 hearing aids are bought in Australia
- 10,000 people whose first language is Auslan, cannot be left behind and deserve better access to education, jobs & community life
Why you should do something about your hearing loss this Hearing Awareness Week
For most of us, hearing loss is simply a part of ageing. Things wear out and our hearing is no exception.
But some people are more affected than others.
If you’ve worked in noisy environments, your hearing may have been damaged irreparably. We’ve previously highlighted the problems of hearing loss in professions such as mining, farming, manufacturing, transport and construction are particularly at risk.
You can read more about work-related hearing loss here.
It’s also true that we put our hearing at risk in everyday situations, such as when we play our favourite music too loud. For the current ‘plugged-in’ generation who are always attached to their ear pods, watch out!
But just because hearing loss is part of life, doesn’t mean that you should put up with the negative consequences of hearing loss.
The advantages of better hearing
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You can communicate more easily
These days, hearing aids are highly advanced and can improve your ability to hear everyday conversations, in person and on the phone. The latest hearing technology connects to your smartphone, enabling you to communicate easily with others.
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You can hear better when there’s background noise
Hearing devices are now designed to dampen background noise and focus in on voices. This is great when you’re out with friends or family at a café or restaurant.
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Better hearing keeps you connected and healthier!
Research has proven that people often become withdrawn from their social life when they struggle with hearing loss. This can adversely affect their health.
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You’ll be more employable and able to earn more money
It’s true! One major study by Access Economics found that hearing loss affected workplace productivity in Australia generally. But other studies have pinpointed the finding that people who have hearing loss are more likely to be unemployed or earn less than the average worker.
Our special offer for Hearing Awareness Week 2020 – save 30% on your second hearing device
In the spirit of helping more people to take a step towards better hearing health, we’re offering 30% off your second hearing aid if you buy before March 31, 2020.
We find most people benefit by having two hearing aids, so it’s an offer that will help most prospective hearing aid wearers.
Please note, our offer of 30% off is only available on hearing devices that are purchased privately (that is, you are not eligible for government support).
On the bright side, if you are eligible for support through the Australian Government’s Hearing Services Program, you’re already receiving a considerable saving on the cost of your hearing aids – and we’re happy to help you apply and process that benefit.