What is Hearing Awareness Week?

Hearing Awareness Week falls on the first week of March and is used to raise awareness about hearing loss and promote hearing health.1 In Australia, 1 in 6 people experience some form of hearing loss, ranging from mild to complete loss of hearing.2 Though it’s estimated that 3.6 million people aged over 15 are living with hearing loss in Australia, the condition is still one that is stigmatised.2 

Hearing Awareness Week is a chance to start conversations, share knowledge, and encourage people to take action when it comes to protecting their hearing health. Whether it’s getting a hearing check, learning about ear health and protection, or supporting a loved one with hearing loss, small steps can make a big difference. 

World Hearing Day is celebrated on March 3 and is an opportunity to raise awareness about hearing loss. This year, the World Health Organisation wants to change the way people think about hearing care.3 With the theme of ‘changing mindset: empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all’, the organisation wants individuals to be proactive in their ear health, scheduling regular checks, using hearing devices if needed, and supporting those who have hearing loss. 
 

Understanding Hearing Loss

Hearing loss may not always be visible, but according to statistics it’s the second most common health condition faced by Australians. As our population ages, the number of people with a hearing impairment is expected to double to an estimated 7.8 million people by 2060.4 

Even so, more than 1.3 million Australians have hearing loss that could have been prevented.4 Noise exposure is one of the leading causes of preventable hearing loss and many people live with hearing loss for years before seeking help.5 

Recognising the early signs of hearing loss is key. If you frequently ask people to repeat themselves, struggle to hear in noisy places, or turn the TV volume up louder than others, it may be time for a hearing check. 
 

How to Protect Your Hearing

The good news? There is a lot you can do to help prevent hearing loss, from lifestyle changes to safe listening habits. When it comes to protecting your hearing health every day, consider the following tips:

  • Lower the volume: keep headphones and earbuds at a safe listening level (60% of maximum volume) and take breaks.6
  • Wear hearing protection: if you’re in a loud environment like a concert or construction site, use earplugs or noise-cancelling earmuffs. 
  • Limit exposure to loud noise: sounds above 85 decibels (like heavy traffic or power tools) can damage your hearing over time.6 Reduce prolonged exposure when possible by taking breaks and wearing hearing protection. 
  • Get regular hearing checks: just like we need regular health checks, the same can be said for our ear health. Hearing checks with a hearing care professional should be part of your health routine. 


Empower Yourself This Hearing Awareness Week

Hearing is important for our health and overall well-being, helping us stay connected to the people and places around us. Hearing Awareness Week is a great reminder to prioritise your hearing health. By taking small steps today, you can ensure that you continue to enjoy the sounds that make life meaningful for years to come. 

Start Hearing Awareness Week off the right way by booking an appointment at your local Connect Hearing clinic. Our friendly team can check your hearing, address any concerns, and set you up with top protection strategies to ensure your hearing remains a priority. 

 

References

  1. World Health Organization (3 March 2025), World Hearing Day 2025 - Changing mindsets: empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all, World Health Organization, accessed 25 February 2025. 
  2. Health Direct (July 2022), Hearing loss, www.healthdirect.gov.au, accessed 25 February 2025. 
  3. World Health Organization (n.d.), World Hearing Day 2025 (3 March), World Health Organization, accessed 25 February 2025. 
  4. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care (14 May 2024), About ear health, www.health.gov.au, accessed 25 February 2025.