Differences Between Self-Reported and Objectively Measured Hearing Loss at Age 61–63 Years: The Newcastle Thousand Families Birth Cohort

Abstract

Purpose: Hearing loss is most prevalent among older adults, yet underestimated by patients, clinicians, and research communities. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of self-reported hearing difficulties among a group of adults aged 61–63 years, against audiometric measures. Method: The analysis used a sample ( N = 346) of the Newcastle Thousand Families Study birth cohort. Data from audiological examinations and self-reported hearing difficulties were used to compare subjective and objective hearing. Hearing aid use was also assessed. Results: Over 40% of the participants had some level of hearing loss ( n = 155, 44.8%), and 31% ( n = 133) of these reported having hearing problems during subjective assessment. Only 18 (10%) of those with objectively measured hearing loss reported using hearing aids. Conclusions: There was an inconsistency between measured and self-perceived hearing loss among adults aged 61–63 years in this cohort. The small number of hearing aid users in the cohort is a concern, in that people in this age group appear not to be getting the help they need. The data also add to the research evidence that people at this age underestimate their hearing loss.