A survey found significant gaps in awareness, persistent barriers to treatment, and the profound impact of hearing loss on quality of life.

 

A hearing survey found significant gaps in awareness, persistent barriers to treatment, and the profound impact of hearing loss on quality of life – underscoring the importance of early intervention and proactive care.

The Healthy Ears, Healthy Years survey was done by Cochlear, an implantable hearing solutions company, in collaboration with US Wakefield Research, provided an in-depth look at hearing health in four countries including Singapore, Australia, China and Japan. The survey covered more than 4,000 adults, 25 years and older.

Here are the findings in Singapore and a regional comparison:

1. Singaporeans overlook hearing health

Despite strong awareness, Singaporeans are not prioritising hearing health:

• 87 percent of adults rank hearing tests as necessary, yet 33 percent haven’t had a hearing test in over five years.
• 27 percent believe their hearing is fair or poor, but only five percent have received treatment.
• 25 percent will wait until hearing loss affects daily life before seeking treatment.

Regional comparison: Similar neglect is seen across Asia-Pacific. In China, 32 percent say they have delayed obtaining a hearing device due to cost, while 33 percent of Australians haven’t had a hearing test in over five years​.

 

2. Cost & misconceptions are major barriers

Financial concerns and misinformation prevent many Singaporeans from seeking timely treatment:

• 82 percent cite cost as a reason for not seeking help for hearing loss.
• 50 percent have not seen a specialist due to cost; 33 percent don’t have a hearing device for the same reason.
• 58 percent mistakenly believe hearing loss cannot be treated effectively – the highest in the region.
• 46 percent report their doctor rarely discusses hearing health during routine check-ups.

Fact: Government subsidies and financial assistance programmes are available for eligible patients to make treatment more affordable – https://www.moh.gov.sg/newsroom/enhanced-subsidies-for-clinically–and-cost-effective-implants

3. The life-changing benefits of treatment

• 100 percent of Singaporean adults who received treatment reported an improved quality of life, and 86 percent wished they had acted sooner.
• Hearing aids and cochlear implants can restore clarity of sound, boost confidence, and enhance independence.

 

4. Hearing health & Singapore’s ageing population

With hearing loss on the rise among older adults, early intervention is crucial:

• Hearing loss among Singaporeans aged 60+ has increased from 1.3 percent in 2013 to 9.2 percent in 2023​.
• 79 percent of Singaporean adults believe hearing loss will affect social interactions, and 40 percent fear it will impact their independence.

 

For adults, hearing loss becomes more common as we age. Almost two in three adults older than 60 experience some degree of hearing decline. This rises to nearly 90 percent of people aged 80 and older. Healthy hearing is more than just being able to hear – it’s deeply connected to everyday health and well-being. Monitoring and treating hearing loss early helps keep people socially connected, mentally well and physically safe.

 

(** PICTURE CREDIT: Cochlear’s website)