EuroTrak UK 2025: Hearing instrument satisfaction rises, but public awareness still lags
New data released by the British Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association (BIHIMA) reveals encouraging improvements in hearing instrument use and satisfaction across the UK – yet highlights the need for increased public awareness and earlier intervention.
A mixed picture: gains in experience, gaps in adoption
The newly published EuroTrak UK 2025 survey offers a valuable insight into the current state of hearing health in the UK. While the data showcases positive momentum in terms of user satisfaction and daily usage, it also uncovers persistent barriers that prevent many from seeking hearing care.
One key concern is a slight dip in adoption rates. Among individuals who self-declare hearing loss, only 50.5% now use hearing instruments – down from 52.8% in 2022. Though the UK still ranks third internationally, trailing only Denmark and France, this decline is a reminder that outdated perceptions and information gaps may be holding people back.
“It’s concerning to see the adoption rate decline slightly, particularly when satisfaction and quality of life outcomes are at an all-time high,” said Paul Surridge, Chairman of BIHIMA. “Clearly, there is still work to be done on raising awareness and breaking down remaining barriers.”
A leap forward in user experience
Despite the decline in uptake, user satisfaction is soaring:
- Average daily wear time has increased by over 10%, reaching 9 hours per day, up from 8.1 hours in 2022.
- 82% of users report being satisfied with their hearing instruments, compared to 75% in the previous survey.
- An overwhelming 96% say their devices improve their quality of life at least sometimes.
Improvements were seen across nearly all listening situations, including particularly challenging environments like group conversations and noisy settings.
“Today’s hearing instruments are impressive in their capabilities,” Paul continued. “They integrate AI, real-time sound processing, and app-based controls that offer a completely personalised experience. Hearing instruments are no longer just amplifiers; they’re intelligent health devices.”
Apps: A growing part of the hearing ecosystem
The survey also highlights a sharp rise in the use of mobile apps that support hearing aid functionality:
- 31% of users now report using an app with their device (up from 22% in 2022).
- 76% of these app users express satisfaction with the digital experience, a notable jump from 65% previously.
Despite this progress, nearly 70% of users still don’t use associated apps, revealing a missed opportunity for enhancing hearing care through technology.
“It’s fantastic to see app adoption on the rise,” added Paul. “But it also highlights the growing need for audiologists to be fluent in these evolving tools and pass that knowledge on to patients.”
Shifting attitudes and systemic support
The stigma traditionally associated with hearing aids appears to be lessening:
- 70% of users say they never feel mocked or rejected because of their device, up from 64% in 2022.
Yet barriers like denial of hearing loss, concerns about discomfort, and perceptions of low severity remain prevalent among those who choose not to adopt hearing solutions.
On the systemic level, the NHS remains a crucial provider, supplying 69% of hearing aids free of charge. At the same time, the private market is gaining traction, with purchases through specialist hearing stores increasing from 16% in 2022 to 21% in 2025.
A call to action
Summarising the findings, Paul Surridge emphasised the dual reality of progress and persisting challenges:
“The 2025 EuroTrak data tells a powerful story: hearing technology is changing lives, but we still face a major public health challenge in encouraging people to seek help earlier. As an industry, we must better communicate the transformative impact of hearing technology – whether through the NHS or private care – and continue to challenge outdated assumptions.”
Source: EHIMA link here
