In some cases, the results of a choice are plainly visible. Driving with a flat tire, as an example, leads to tire wear and potential expenses for realignment or a new axle. Failing to maintain a regular oil change schedule can result in expensive engine damage.
However, other costs are more nuanced, with their implications not always readily obvious.
But just because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Failing to eat vegetables, for example, might not have immediate complications, but your health will eventually decline.
A great example of this is job-related hearing loss.
Real expenses and implications might not be immediately evident, often arising only after the fact. Nonetheless, they undeniably exist. What is the real cost of hearing loss at work? Let’s have a closer look.
Is hearing loss in the workplace very common?
Studies indicate that approximately one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. Plus, another 8% have tinnitus (ringing of the ears). Four percent of them have tinnitus that’s so bad that they can’t hear.
24% of these results are a result of workplace exposure, according to government agencies. Although governments have executed steps to minimize occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million people are still exposed to hazardous noise levels annually.
An additional 10 million people are at risk of being subjected to harmful compounds in the workplace that could increase their hearing loss. These include certain cleaners, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are just part of a day’s work in some professions.
What are the costs of hearing loss?
The financial and personal implications of hearing loss might not be immediately obvious, but grasping these repercussions is essential for making informed choices that prioritize your overall health and quality of life.
Costs in the workplace
People who do not deal with their hearing loss are disclosed to earn about $12,000 less annually than those who have normal hearing, according to research carried out by The Better Hearing Institute. The reason for this may be clarified as follows. Studies indicate that having hearing loss raises your chances of:
- Injury which can lead to short-term disability
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Difficulty in hearing or comprehending directives
- Getting into disagreements because of something you think someone said or didn’t say
- Advancement opportunities are passing you by
- Missing work
- Social solitude (cost fluctuates, but it can substantially increase general health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + missed workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Increased danger for Emergency Room visits ($2,000+)
- Follow all safety guidelines mandated by your employer, including wearing earplugs, masks, or other protective gear on the job. Several of these recommendations follow OSHA regulations that are intended to safeguard your well-being.
- Start open and courteous dialogues with your co-workers about work conditions that might result in hearing problems. Avoid making threats and instead communicate honestly with your superiors.
- Utilize a sound monitoring app on your smartphone to perform tests, evaluating the noise levels in your environment when it’s safe to do so. Adhere to recommended guidelines: 85 decibels for no more than 8 hours, 90 for no more than 2 hours, 95 for no more than 50 minutes, 100 for no more than 15 minutes, and 110 and above equals immediate damage.
- Have a hearing test every year to monitor any changes that might occur. If you detect a decline in your hearing, consider finding a safer work environment.
But it doesn’t end there.
Everyday expenses
People with hearing impairment frequently encounter challenges with family and friends. According to a study, those who have hearing loss often have more disagreements within their families, with 33% associating most of their conflicts to their hearing loss.
A shocking number of people with hearing loss – roughly one in sixteen – state that their partner has threatened to end their relationship unless they take steps to address their hearing problems. Additionally, 20% of individuals with hearing loss admit to frequently deceiving their families about the seriousness of their condition.
This interpersonal stress frequently expands to their professional performance. Those with neglected hearing loss face twice the probability of becoming socially secluded from friends and family. This isolation leaves them without a critical support system when coping with sickness, mental health issues, injuries, or diminishing health.
Costs associated with medical issues
Health-related costs of untreated hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more prevalent in people with untreated hearing loss, including:
It is important to focus on your hearing now.
Reducing the odds of experiencing hearing loss
With the escalating worldwide incidence of hearing loss, it is important to start open and productive conversations in the workplace. Check out these recommendations:
Take practical actions by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and available options for protecting your hearing at work. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have considerable financial consequences, making it essential to grasp the true consequences of putting things off. The risks are too great to postpone taking action.
