Grey haired woman having a hard time hearing

Hearing Loss is More Common Than You Think

Hearing loss is the third most common chronic health condition in the U.S.

48 million Americans experience hearing loss
1 in 3 people over 65 live with it
And it’s not just about volume—clarity matters too

In fact, 25 million people are told they have “normal hearing” but still struggle to understand speech—especially in noisy places.

Do you ever feel like people are mumbling? Like you're catching parts of a sentence but missing the point? You're not imagining it.

Hearing Loss Simulator

Want to understand what hearing loss sounds like? Starkey’s Hearing Loss Simulator lets you experience what it's like to hear with mild, moderate, or severe hearing loss—including trouble with background noise and speech clarity.

Whether you're curious about your own hearing or want to better understand someone else's experience, this tool offers powerful insight.

👉 Try Starkey’s Simulator (opens in a new tab)

Wait—Is It Me or the Environment?

Modern environments make it hard for anyone to hear clearly. Before you blame your ears, consider this:

Environmental factors that impact hearing:

Loud or overlapping background noise
Poor lighting (can't see facial expressions or lips)
Echoey or poorly designed spaces
Far distance or awkward angle from speaker
Seating arrangements that hinder line of sight
Constant distractions

But if you're consistently struggling when others aren't…

Take a Closer Look at These Signs

Do you relate to any of the following?

I often mishear words (like “cold” for “gold”)
I ask people to repeat themselves often
I find phone calls especially challenging
I rely on lip reading, even subconsciously
Group conversations feel overwhelming
I sometimes avoid social situations
I pretend to understand, even when I don’t
I feel frustrated, anxious, or exhausted from trying to keep up
I experience headaches, muscle tension, or mental fatigue

If several of these sound like your experience, it may be time to explore your hearing health.

How Hearing Loss Feels is Personal

We all respond differently to hearing challenges. How are you feeling?

Surprised? It often happens gradually—you’re not alone.
Frustrated? You don’t want to wear hearing aids or change your habits.
Worried? Will this affect your relationships or confidence?
Relieved? Now you understand what’s been going on.
Hopeful? There are ways to improve your hearing and your life.

Every feeling is valid.

Woman holding a sign with a list of different emotions

Why Act Now?

Most people wait 7–10 years before seeking help, but untreated hearing loss can lead to:

Increased mental strain and fatigue
Social withdrawal and isolation
Higher risk of dementia
Greater likelihood of falls
Mood changes and blood pressure shifts

The most common reaction? Denial.
The most harmful outcome? Disconnection.

Visiting this website means you are leaning into your new reality.

Woman holding a sign that says Don't Wait

Your Next Step

Make an appointment with a hearing health professional:

An audiologist (hearing tests, devices, strategies)
Or an otolaryngologist (also called an ENT)

They’ll help assess your needs and walk you through your options. Hearing aids and other tools have come a long way—and you deserve to hear life clearly.