Limited access to audiologists, long waiting times, lack of awareness, stigma, and inadequate support for maintenance and follow-up care are some of the reasons why the hearing aid adoption rate could be as low as 6%, particularly in South Africa's public health sector. In an effort to bridge this gap, Spec-Savers has introduced a hearing aid financial service.
“One in three adults aged between 65 and 74, and more than 80% of those aged 85 and older, are affected by hearing loss, with hearing loss also affecting an estimated 17% of teenagers and 19% of people in their 20s,” says Bronwyn Van Wyk, head of audiology at Spec-Savers, which started to include audiology services in addition to optometry in 2022.
“Yet only 29% of people who need hearing aids actually use them.”
“Cost is one of the biggest barriers as to why South Africans don’t buy hearing aids and do regular hearing checks."
Hearing loss can significantly affect a person’s health, happiness, and everyday life.
It can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, challenges at work, safety concerns, and even impact mental well-being.
Hearing aids offer many wide-ranging benefits across all ages, including improved speech, better understanding in noisy environments, and enhanced overall communication.
These devices contribute to a better quality of life by reducing social isolation and promoting emotional well-being.
For older adults, the use of hearing aids is associated with improved cognitive function and may help delay cognitive decline.
In children and young adults, early hearing aid use supports language development, academic success, and social skills.
Given the stigma that has long been associated with wearing hearing aids, a key modern advantage is that these devices are no longer large or cumbersome.
“Today’s hearing aids are sleek and compact and feature advanced technology that helps reduce the stigma and makes them more comfortable and discreet."
