The role of good hearing in staying connected and combating loneliness
28 November 2024
Good hearing plays a crucial role in keeping us connected to the people and activities that bring joy and fulfilment to our lives. For older Australians, maintaining hearing health can be especially important in reducing the risk of loneliness, social isolation, and associated health issues.
Research has shown that a lack of social connection can carry risks as significant as smoking, excessive drinking, or obesity, and social isolation has been linked to anxiety and depression. With one in five older Australians experiencing social isolation, hearing loss can be a serious barrier to maintaining these vital connections1.The relationship of hearing loss with loneliness, social isolation, and psychosocial functioning in older people - NAL
In a recent study2, the National Acoustic Laboratories (NAL), in partnership with the University of New South Wales, explored the links between hearing, social interaction, and feelings of loneliness. The study analysed data from 200 adults over the age of 80, all participants in the Sydney Memory and Ageing Study. This research aims to better understand how hearing loss and the use of hearing aids affect social connection and isolation in older adults.
Padraig Kitterick, Head of Audiological Sciences at NAL, notes that “hearing loss is common in older Australians, so it’s important to understand the impact hearing loss and the regular use of hearing aids has on how isolated or lonely this vulnerable population feels. However, there is currently a lack of evidence in this area, which prompted us to investigate.”
The findings highlight that hearing loss can affect the degree to which people connect with others, influencing their social networks and frequency of social interactions, and ultimately their sense of connection. Padraig explains, “We know hearing loss can impact the degree to which people connect with others, including the size of their social network, how often they see people, and how socially connected or conversely isolated they feel. These are not always the same thing, as it is sometimes possible for people to see and interact with a lot of people but still feel lonely.”
What you can do about it
If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulty hearing, there are several steps you can take to protect and improve hearing health:
- Get a hearing check: Getting a hearing check is a quick and easy way to identify any potential hearing issues early.
- Consider hearing aids: Modern hearing aids are highly effective, customisable, and more discreet than ever. They can be tailored to fit different levels of hearing loss and lifestyle needs, helping to restore quality of life by making conversations and social interactions easier and more enjoyable.
- Reach out for support: Hearing Australia offers assistance with finding hearing solutions and accessing government-funded support for eligible people.
- Encourage social engagement: Prioritising social activities and maintaining regular contact with family and friends is important for mental well-being. Regular social engagement can be more enjoyable and fulfilling when hearing issues are addressed.
As NAL’s research progresses, these insights underscore the importance of taking steps to address hearing loss, not just for the sake of hearing but for overall social and emotional well-being. By treating hearing loss, older Australians can enjoy more meaningful connections, reduce feelings of loneliness, and improve their quality of life.
Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program
1 WHO launches commission to foster social connection, 2023
