Who We Are and What We Do
Improving the quality of life for all persons with a hearing loss
Hearing New Zealand works to improve the lives of the 880,000+ people in New Zealand living with a hearing loss. Our 15 branches across the country offer numerous services in their communities including free hearing checks, unbiased advice and a calendar of events. We are also advocates for the deaf and hearing impaired, promoting inclusivity and accessibility.
We work to educate people (particularly youth) about noise-induced hearing loss and how to keep their hearing safe. Global data shows that one in five young people have a hearing loss and this number is likely to double over the next 30 years. We'd like to prevent this predicted increase through educating young people and changing attitudes around safe listening.
Lastly, we recognise the importance of research in improving the lives of those living with a hearing loss but also in prevention. We commission our own research projects as well and support other hearing-related research so that we can make positive changes.
Why We Do It
Hearing loss is a growing problem
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates 466 million (6.1% of the world's population) to be living with a hearing loss.
More than 1 billion young people (12-35 years) are at risk for hearing loss due to recreational exposure to loud sound
750 billion is the overall annual cost of unaddressed hearing loss globally
The daily struggle of living with a hearing loss can lead to feelings of embarrassment and frustration
There are many mental, social and emotional effects of hearing loss including depression, isolation and cognitive decline
People with a hearing loss are two to five times more likely to develop dementia
Hearing loss can force many people into early retirement and those who are deaf or living with a hearing loss are more likely to be unemployed
Suicide rates are higher for people living with tinnitus