The Hearing Aid Effect in the 2020s: Where Do We Stand?

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Social Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• The 'hearing aid effect' describes negative perceptions of hearing assistive devices (HADs).
• This stigma is a significant barrier to HAD adoption for children and adults.
• Understanding current perceptions is crucial for addressing this barrier.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess contemporary public perception of individuals using HADs.
• To identify factors influencing these perceptions.
• To evaluate generational differences in attitudes towards HADs.

Main Methods:

• A 30-item photo-based survey was administered to 517 participants in a metropolitan shopping center.
• Perceptions of individuals using HADs were compared to healthy individuals and those with disabilities.
• Demographic data including age, gender, and education were collected.

Main Results:

• Nearly 60% of participants did not view HAD users as needing assistance compared to healthy individuals.
• Generations X and Z showed significantly more positive perceptions of HAD users than Baby Boomers.
• Most participants viewing HAD use as a handicap lacked a family member who used HADs.

Conclusions:

• Stigma associated with wearing hearing assistive devices is diminishing.
• Younger generations perceive HAD use less as a disability.
• These findings can inform counseling for prospective HAD users and their families.