Two-thirds of adults living with hearing loss do not receive treatment in the EU which results in yearly costs in terms of productivity loss and lost quality of life of €185 billion in the EU. People with untreated hearing loss are at higher risk of being unemployed, earning less, suffering from comorbidities, and socially isolating themselves compared to their normal hearing peers.

Untreated hearing loss contributes to social withdrawal, loneliness, and depression. A study revealed that the odds of experiencing loneliness were 2.2 times higher among older adults with hearing loss compared to hearing peers. It is proven that cost-effective hearing interventions such as hearing aids and cochlear implants show significant benefits connected to mental well-being.

Systematic hearing tests across a population are the best way of breaking down barriers, and identifying and treating those with untreated hearing loss in order to avoid the long-term effects. Universal newborn hearing screening is the minimum standard of care in paediatric hearing health. The area that requires vast improvement is systematic hearing screening programmes for the over 55s.

In Europe, one-third of people over 60 years are living with disabling hearing loss. By 2050, the global number of people with hearing loss will double. The association between ageing and hearing loss is evident. Therefore, national hearing screening programmes and treatment options are proven to help avoid or minimize comorbidities, social isolation, and financial costs in Europe.

Hearing loss, the top modifiable dementia risk, accelerates cognitive decline and harms social and mental health. Timely interventions like cochlear implants improve outcomes, while the Hearing Health Forum EU calls for awareness, national strategies, and equitable treatment access to support healthy aging.