A good sense of hearing is essential for the vast majority of jobs. Some professions, such as military and police, require individuals to maintain certain levels of hearing to remain employed. When someone has difficulty hearing, physical safety can be put at risk, and communication with colleagues and clients can be challenging. Treatment for hearing loss with hearing aids can diminish or reverse any negative impacts that come from having hearing loss in the workplace. This includes earning capability.
In August 2024, researchers in Norway analyzed data from nearly 15,000 people over a 20-year period to understand how hearing impairment affects annual earnings. Tracking individuals between the ages of 20 to 40, it was found that professionals with healthy hearing experienced significantly higher earnings compared to those with untreated hearing loss. Furthermore, untreated hearing loss caused a gradual decline in earnings over time.
Hearing loss doesn’t just happen to older adults. It can happen to anyone at any age due to a variety of factors such as exposure to loud noise, illness, medications, smoking, diabetes, or genetics. In the U.S., 1 in 8 people in the United States ages 12 or older has hearing loss in both ears.1 The World Health Organization has warned that globally, 1.1 billion teenagers and young adults are at risk of hearing loss “due to the unsafe use of personal audio devices, including smartphones, and exposure to damaging levels of sound at noisy entertainment venues such as nightclubs, bars, and sporting events."2 Protecting your hearing can also protect your future job prospects and earnings.
The impact of hearing loss on earnings is substantial and has economic impacts at both the individual and societal levels. If you’ve been in the workforce for a while, are looking to change jobs, or are just starting your career, consider your hearing health as one of your most vital assets in accomplishing your goals. If you have experienced difficulty hearing, reach out to a licensed hearing professional to get a comprehensive hearing exam and discuss options for hearing at your best!
The Hearing Industries Association is the trusted voice on hearing health care for product innovation, public policy, patient safety and education.
