It is estimated that there are approximately 11 million people in this country with a hearing loss which makes it the second most common disability in the UK.

Here are some key facts and figures:

• 1 in 6 of the UK adult population is affected by hearing loss.
• 8 million of these are aged 60 and over.
• 6.7 million could benefit from hearing aids but only about 2 million people use them.
• About 900,000 people are severely or profoundly deaf.
• About 12,000 people in the UK use cochlear implants.
• Many people with hearing loss also have tinnitus which affects 1 in 10 adults. They may also have balance difficulties.

Hearing loss and dementia

When hearing loss is unassisted, studies have suggested those with a mild hearing loss are twice as likely to develop dementia as people without hearing loss, whilst those with moderate hearing loss are three times more likely to develop dementia and those with severe hearing loss are five times more likely to develop dementia.

There is evidence that cognitive decline can be addressed through early detection of hearing loss and the provision of amplification such as hearing aids.

Hearing loss in older people

Nearly 42% of those aged over 50 years have hearing loss, increasing to about 71% of people aged 70+.

About 400,000 older people live in care homes and are disproportionately affected by hearing loss, with approximately 75% of residents having a hearing problem.

Unassisted hearing loss have a significant impact on older people leading to social isolation, depression, reduced quality of life and loss of independence and mobility.