In some cases, the results of a decision are plainly evident. Driving a vehicle with a flat tire can cause uneven tire wear and potentially costly repairs, like wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Ignoring regular oil changes can result in engine failure.
Still, some costs are subtler, with connections not immediately evident.
But just because they can’t be detected, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to consume vegetables, for example, might not have instant consequences, but your health will eventually decline.
A great example of this is work-related hearing loss.
The actual costs and connections may be uncertain, usually becoming apparent only in hindsight. However, their existence is indisputable. What is the real price of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s take a closer look.
How prevalent is hearing loss in the workplace?
According to studies, around 15.5% of people in the US have difficulty hearing. Additionally, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so bad that they can’t hear.
24% of these outcomes are a result of workplace exposure, according to government departments. In spite of efforts by the government to curb health hazards, 22 million workers are exposed to dangerous noise levels each year.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being subjected to harmful substances in the workplace that could exacerbate their hearing loss. These include some cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some professions.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The economic and personal implications of hearing loss may not be immediately obvious, but grasping these repercussions is essential for making educated choices that prioritize your overall health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
Individuals who do not address their hearing loss are disclosed to earn approximately $12,000 less annually than people who have normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. This could be linked to the following. Research shows that with hearing loss, you’re at increased risk of:
- Harm that might result in a temporary incapacity
- Problems in job effectiveness
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Getting involved in arguments because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Social isolation (cost varies, but it can substantially increase general health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia: The financial hardship can be enormous
- Greater likelihood of accidental falls results in a considerable financial strain
- Rising likelihood of workplace injuries (fluctuates)
- Higher likelihood of expensive hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Comply with the safety rules established by your employer, which might include utilizing earplugs, masks, or other safety devices while at work. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
- Begin open and polite discussions with your co-workers about work conditions that could result in hearing problems. Replace aggressive language with open and straightforward dialogue when communicating with management.
- Use a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to conduct tests, evaluating the noise levels in your surroundings when it’s safe to do so. Follow the suggested recommendations of 85 dB for a maximum of 8 hours, 90 decibels for no more than 2 hours, 95 decibels for no more than 50 minutes, 100 decibels for a maximum of 15 minutes, and sound levels of 110 and higher can cause immediate harm.
- Undergo a hearing test annually to keep track of changes over time. If you detect a decline in your hearing, consider pursuing a safer work environment.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Costs in your day-to-day life
People experiencing neglected hearing loss are more likely to experience troubles in their personal connections. Research shows that people experiencing hearing loss are more likely to have disagreements within their families, with 33% of them associating most of their conflicts to their impaired hearing.
A surprising one in sixteen individuals with hearing loss reports that their partner has given a divorce ultimatum unless they get help. Moreover, one-fifth of people experiencing hearing loss admit to frequently misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
The strain in their personal relationships can also impact their work productivity. People with neglected hearing loss face twice the probability of becoming socially isolated from friends and family. Their lack of connections leads to the absence of crucial support and comfort when facing sickness, mental health problems, physical injuries, or deteriorating well-being.
Costs related to medical issues
The financial burden of unaddressed hearing loss goes beyond the condition itself, encompassing the costs of managing related health issues that research has linked to untreated hearing loss, including:
It’s time to get serious about your hearing.
Minimizing the odds of experiencing hearing loss
As the global prevalence of hearing loss continues to rise, it becomes essential to engage in meaningful workplace conversations. Check out these suggestions:
Consider seeking expert advice from an audiologist to evaluate your workplace and explore possible options to enhance your hearing on the job. Putting off for 7-10 years without getting help can result in substantial costs, and understanding the real implications of procrastination is essential. The stakes are too high to delay action.
