Hearing loss affects millions of people worldwide, yet many who could benefit from hearing aids choose not to use them. Last year, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) reported that despite more than half of American adults ages 40 and older having some hearing difficulties, only 8% had been treated. Further, few Americans have purchased over-the-counter hearing aids since their approval by the FDA in 2022. This begs the question: why do so many individuals delay or avoid using hearing aids, even when they know it could improve their quality of life?

Denial and Stigma

One of the most prevalent reasons is simple denial. Hearing loss often happens gradually, and many individuals may not notice the change until it becomes severe. They might think their hearing is “not that bad” or blame external factors (like others mumbling) for their difficulties. It’s common for people to feel that admitting they need a hearing aid is equivalent to admitting they’re “old”, bringing up uncomfortable emotions. 

Stigma surrounding hearing aids further discourages use. Although modern hearing aids are more discreet and technologically advanced than ever, many people still associate them with negative stereotypes about aging or disability. This cultural stigma can make people hesitant to wear devices, especially in public.

Cost Concerns

The financial burden of hearing aids is a major barrier. Depending on the technology, hearing aids can range from $1,000 to $6,000 per pair. In many countries, including the U.S., these costs are not always fully covered by insurance, forcing patients to pay out-of-pocket. For many, this expense is simply unaffordable, even though untreated hearing loss can have long-term negative effects on personal and professional life.

There are more affordable over-the-counter options becoming available, but cost remains a significant barrier for many.

Perceived Ineffectiveness

Some people may try hearing aids but then stop using them because they don’t seem to work well. This can be due to several reasons: choosing the wrong hearing model, improper fitting, incorrect settings, or unrealistic expectations. Hearing aids don’t fully restore normal hearing; they amplify sound, and the adjustment period can be challenging. If someone expects perfect hearing right away and doesn’t get it, they may feel disappointed and give up too soon.

An audiologist can play a critical role in fine-tuning the devices and educating the user on what to expect. But without this support, it’s easy to become frustrated and abandon hearing aids altogether.

Comfort and Convenience

Some people simply find hearing aids to be uncomfortable. Even with the most modern designs, devices can cause irritation in the ears or feel cumbersome, especially when worn for long periods. Others find them inconvenient to maintain—regular cleaning, battery changes, or charging can feel like a hassle. And then there’s the issue of misplacing or losing such small devices, which can be a real source of stress.

Social and Emotional Impact

Hearing aids can also affect how individuals perceive themselves socially. Some worry that wearing a hearing aid will change how they interact with others, making them feel self-conscious or even socially isolated. They might fear that friends or colleagues will view them differently, or that their hearing loss will define their identity in social settings.

Ironically, untreated hearing loss often leads to social isolation because the person struggles to engage in conversations or group activities. Wearing hearing aids can help reconnect individuals with their surroundings, but the fear of how they’ll be perceived can still hold them back.

Lack of Information and Awareness

Many people simply don’t know enough about all the available options. The world of hearing aids has evolved rapidly, and many who might benefit from them are unaware of the range of technologies that exist. They may not know that hearing aids today come with features like Bluetooth connectivity, advanced noise-canceling capabilities, and even rechargeable batteries.

Additionally, people might not realize the impact untreated hearing loss can have on cognitive health, mental well-being, and relationships. More education and awareness about these long-term effects could prompt more people to take action earlier.

Difficulty Navigating the System

Finally, some individuals don’t use hearing aids because they feel overwhelmed by the process of getting one. The need to see a specialist, undergo tests, choose from a confusing array of models, and then pay for the devices can seem daunting. For older adults, navigating this system may require assistance, which they might not have.

Hearing aids have significant positive impacts on improving quality of life, reducing mortality, and maintaining connectedness. With modern noise exposure and longer lifespans, it is now more than ever crucial for individuals to access the hearing healthcare they need. Addressing the barriers to hearing aid use requires a combination of education, support, and accessibility. Luckily, advancements in hearing aid technology, more affordable options, and increasing public awareness are beginning to make a difference.