Stigma stops patients with hearing loss from seeking help
03 Sep 2025
Research shows stigma is a major barrier to care, as 60% of people with hearing loss say they’ve been mocked.
A new study has found that stigma is one of the biggest reasons people with hearing loss avoid getting help, with many choosing to keep their condition a secret.
The research, led by Flinders University and the University of Queensland and published in the International Journal of Audiology, surveyed more than 600 people from Australia, the US and the UK.
It showed that one in three adults over 50 hide their hearing loss because they fear being judged. Almost 60% said others had laughed at or joked about their difficulties, leaving them feeling embarrassed, frustrated, and reluctant to seek care.
Researchers also found a difference between how patients and professionals see the issue. While clinicians often focus on the stigma of wearing hearing aids, many adults are more worried about the stigma of hearing loss itself.
Dr Katie Ekberg from Flinders University said being open about hearing loss is an important first step in accepting it and using hearing aids. But for many, that first conversation is the hardest.
‘The more we understand about stigma, the better we can support people to feel confident, seek help, and talk openly about their hearing loss,’ she said.
She added that support from professionals, family and friends can make a big difference, and that raising awareness is key to breaking outdated stereotypes.
‘Hearing loss often begins from around age 50, but it’s still wrongly seen as something that only happens to the very elderly,’ Dr Ekberg said.
The study highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding in the community so that people feel comfortable seeking help and using hearing aids when they need them.
Source Racgp