This Grandparents Day, Sept. 9, Speak Up About Hearing Loss

Rockville, MD – August 27, 2012- Do you suspect an older family member has trouble hearing? With 99 million U.S. adults over 50 having untreated hearing loss, chances are you do. Almost half the respondents in an AARP/American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) National Poll on Hearing Health [PDF] reported having untreated hearing health issues, which can lead to depression and social isolation, strained relationships with family and friends, difficulties following conversations during family gatherings and more. The good news is, you can help.

Speak Up About Hearing Loss is ASHA's broadcast public service announcement (PSA) campaign urging families to break through the silence and openly discuss untreated hearing loss among older family members. The campaign hones in on key poll findings that showed:
50 percent of respondents said they would be more likely to seek hearing help if their grandchildren asked them to!

Nearly 70 percent would seek treatment if a loved one asked them to.

57 percent of those with untreated hearing problems say their problems don't warrant treatment and are easy enough to "cover up."
So, this Grandparents Day, Speak Up About Hearing Loss to help improve their quality of life:
Learn more and view the PSA at www.asha.org/hearing

Find a local certified audiologist. Nearly 75% of respondents reported that finding a provider with a high level of training in hearing difficulties is critically important to them were they to see professional help.
Based on data findings from the AARP/ASHA National Poll on Hearing Health