Hearing loss linked to social isolation

According to findings by online pollster YouGov, feelings of social isolation in older Australians could be lowered if hearing loss is treated.

The research – commissioned by national network of healthcare hearing clinics Connect Hearing – surveyed over 1,000 Australians aged 50-plus in the second half of July including over 350 adults with hearing loss.

Of those with hearing loss, 43 per cent say their confidence hads diminished when interacting socially, while 24 per cent feel isolated from family and friends due to their condition. 

Over a third of this chort of respondents agree their loss of hearing is impacting their health and wellbeing (35 per cent), with more than a quarter sharing their relationships are under strain as a result (26 per cent) or they avoid social events and occasions completely because of their hearing loss (27 per cent).

Health and community psychologist Dr Marny Lishman said the impacts of hearing loss on older people are more than just physical.

“In terms of mental health, impaired hearing can contribute to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression,” Dr Lishman told Australian Ageing Agenda this week.

“Cognitively, those who are hearing impaired may withdraw from activities that once provided mental stimulation, such as social engagements, work and hobbies, for fear of feeling awkward or uncomfortable, thereby becoming more at risk of cognitive decline,” she said.

“Emotionally, older Australians may avoid social activities, engagements, or interactions as they feel them too challenging, leading to feelings of loneliness, disconnection, and social isolation.”

Dr Lishman said it was “crucial” to look after the body and mind to maintain a good quality of life into older age.

“Not every older Australian will reach out for assistance for health issues, including hearing impairment, and may take a while before they do admit to suffering,” Dr Lishman said.

“Ongoing empathic discussions by health and social service professionals in the aged care sector over time are crucial to gain an understanding of someone’s day-to-day experience. Older Australians need to feel more empowered to reflect on their own health – asking themselves ‘What do I need help with?’ ‘Who can I reach out to for more information?’ ‘What do I need for additional support?’ and knowing exactly who to go to for assistance.”

Other findings from the survey show that almost half of people living with untreated hearing loss are satisfied with their quality of sleep (49 per cent).

Based on the 1,039 people who took part in the survey, it is estimated that two million older Australians have untreated hearing loss and more than one million seniors are lacking a good night’s rest.

Connect Hearing Audiologist Sam Thomas said people he sees for a hearing check often have other health issues that could be linked.

“I see people struggling with daily conversations and experiencing overstimulation from background noise, which in my opinion can lead to exhaustion,” said Mr Thomas.

“Evidently, this exhaustion, combined with reduced participation in social activities, shows that the impacts of untreated hearing loss can be far-reaching.”

Dr Lishman hopes that the arrival of the new Aged Care Act expected in mid-2025 will prioritise key areas of interest to older people their care providers.

“Having a good quality of life is crucial for older Australians to maintain their wellbeing and stay connected to not only themselves, but the wider community,” Dr Lishman told AAA.

“Being able to reach out and have access to the right services when needing support for health issues that crop up is important on the ageing journey, helping not only to maintaining independence, but also improving the psychological and physical outcomes for individuals whether that be in their own home, or in an aged care facility.”

Key survey findings

• 79 per cent with a friend or family member with hearing loss have recommended or are likely to recommend they find treatment
• 67 per cent with a friend or family member with hearing loss make sure social events and gatherings take place in areas comfortable for those with hearing loss
• 35 per cent say their family or friend with hearing loss has asked if they believe they are experiencing hearing loss
• 43 per cent with hearing loss say their quality of life is being impacted negatively
• 48 per cent say their hearing loss has created uncomfortable situations with others
• 57 per cent with hearing loss say they often need to change physical locations, such as moving seats, to take part in conversation.

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