Factors associated with self-reported hearing difficulty on the revised hearing handicap inventory and its relationship with hearing aid use
Dillard et al.
Published November 2025
In this study, researchers used data from the REACH Program to look at hearing problems and hearing aid use among adults in Wisconsin.
Overall, 137 adults who reported having hearing loss completed a survey about hearing difficulties in daily life. People who started having hearing problems at younger age mentioned more hearing difficulties later in life. People who had ringing in their ears, problems with balance, or worked in loud places also reported more hearing difficulties. Some social factors were also related to hearing problems. For example, people who were never married and people with less education reported more hearing-related issues. The study also looked at hearing aid use and found that only about one out of four people used a hearing aid. People who used hearing aids were usually older and had more serious hearing problems. As hearing problems got worse, people were more likely to use a hearing aid.
Overall, this study showed that hearing problems are common and are related to several health and social factors. Many people who could benefit from hearing aids were not using them. Short surveys can help identify people who may need hearing care. Improving access to hearing care and hearing aids can improve people’s hearing and the overall quality of life.