According to the Central Institute of the Deaf, many Americans (including employers) are unaware of the extent of hearing impairments in the U.S. The latest statistics show that:
Hearing loss statistics
- Nearly one in five adults (36 million) reports some degree of hearing loss.
- Only one out of five people who could benefit from a hearing aid wear one.
- Some 25 million people have experienced "ringing in the ears" (tinnitus).
How many of your employees have difficulty hearing? How might their productivity be suffering either by being unaware of the extent of their hearing loss or believing they can't afford a hearing aid? How does your workplace noise level and/or occupational needs affect such workers?
Helping your employees to review their hearing abilities will improve their lives, while enhancing their productivity and job capabilities. We'd recommend that you:
Employer recommendations
- Provide free hearing screening exams either on site or at a local retail establishment.
- Perform a safety engineering review of workplace noise levels to determine what, if anything, can be done to improve them.
- Review your job descriptions with a focus on positions in which a hearing impairment might be critical.
- Check with us to review how your current benefits package addresses possible hearing impairment needs of your employees and/or how changing benefits can help provide broader protection.
Performing a safety engineering review can identify noise-control opportunities and reduce on-the-job risk; for related workplace safety guidance see The Importance of First Aid Training and Preparedness in the Workplace.
If you want to evaluate benefit options that may help employees with hearing needs, review available programs and discounts such as those described at Hearing Health Discounts Benefits.
To get assistance with benefits or coverage choices, talk to an agent.
You can use a similar process to address any medical or physical issues that might be affecting your employees and workplace. Naturally, this review should consider the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a quick way to screen employees for hearing issues?
Offer on-site or retail-based hearing screening exams that take only a few minutes and can identify who needs a full evaluation.
Can workplace noise make hearing loss worse?
Yes, prolonged exposure to high noise levels can contribute to hearing loss, so a safety engineering review is important to identify controls.
Are hearing aids the only solution for workplace hearing problems?
No, solutions include noise reduction, job accommodations, communication training, and appropriate hearing devices where needed.
Should employers consider the Americans with Disabilities Act when addressing hearing loss?
Yes, employers should consider ADA provisions when evaluating accommodations and job requirements for employees with hearing impairments.