Prevalence and hearing aid adoption
In Portugal, 10.1% of the total population reports hearing loss, with this figure rising to 11.6% among those aged 18 and over. Hearing aid adoption among the hearing-impaired population stands at 23.2%, while 2.3% of the total population use hearing aids. Notably, 67% of hearing aid users in Portugal receive binaural treatment.
Path to hearing aid adoption
Most people with hearing loss (76%) discuss their condition with a doctor, typically starting with a general practitioner (58%) rather than an ENT (42%). From there, 46% are advised to get hearing aids, but 40% drop out at this stage. Of those who proceed, only 23% of all hearing-impaired individuals ultimately obtain a hearing aid.
Testing and diagnosis
Only 29% of the population had a hearing test in the last five years. ENTs conducted most of these tests, followed by audiologists and general practitioners.
Barriers to adoption
For non-users, cost is the primary deterrent: just 25% believe a third party would help finance hearing aids. Other leading reasons include discomfort and the belief that their hearing loss isn’t severe enough. Social stigma is less significant—73% of hearing aid users say they never feel rejected due to their devices.
Use and satisfaction
Hearing aids are worn an average of 9.5 hours per day, and 84% of users report overall satisfaction with their devices. Most users acquired their current hearing aids recently (57% in 2022 or later), and replacement typically occurs every five years.
Technology and Features
- 21% of users engage with hearing aid apps, of whom 76% are satisfied.
- 11% report using Telecoil, primarily for phone calls.
- Remote fitting is still rare: 5% have used it, while 64% are unaware of it.
Impact of Hearing Aids
Hearing aid users report broad life improvements, especially in communication, social participation, and personal confidence. For instance, 88% feel more confident navigating urban environments, and 98% say their hearing aids improve their quality of life at least occasionally. The benefits are even more pronounced among those with more severe hearing loss.
About the survey
EuroTrak POR 2024 was designed and executed by Anovum (Zurich) on behalf of EHIMA and APORMED. 15222 people participated in the survey.
Source: EHIMA
