Untreated hearing loss affects not just hearing but also cognitive, mental, and physical health. It significantly contributes to dementia risk, depression, and reduced workforce participation. ​

Encouragingly, studies show that people who take active steps to treat their hearing loss​ maintain a better quality of life and experience a slower decline in daily functioning.​

This infographic is one of four based on the EHIMA evidence paper “Hearing care as a public health priority: Understanding its benefits and why improved access matters”  (October 2025). Explore the remaining infographics in this series:​