At times, the consequences of a decision are immediately obvious. Driving a vehicle with a deflated tire can cause irregular tire wear and possibly costly repairs, like wheel realignment or even axle replacement. Neglecting routine oil changes can lead to engine failure.
Still, some costs are subtler, with connections not instantly apparent.
But simply because they can’t be seen, doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Failing to eat vegetables, for instance, may not have immediate consequences, but your health will eventually decline.
A perfect example of this is work-related hearing loss.
Real expenses and implications might not be instantly apparent, often arising only after the fact. However, their existence is undeniable. What is the real price of experiencing hearing loss in the workplace? Let’s take a closer look.
How common is hearing loss in the workplace?
Studies indicate that roughly one in six Americans experience some level of hearing difficulty. In addition, another 8% of individuals experience tinnitus, which is a ringing sensation in the ears. A small but significant four percent of individuals experience tinnitus so intense that it renders them unable to hear.
24% of these results are a result of workplace exposure, according to government agencies. Even though governments have executed strategies to minimize occupational health risks, a staggering 22 million workers are still exposed to hazardous noise levels every year.
An additional 10 million are exposed to toxins at work that can exacerbate hearing loss. These include certain cleaning solutions, heavy metals, and carbon monoxide. Many of these are simply part of a day’s work in some line of work.
What expenses are connected with hearing impairment?
The costs of hearing loss are uncertain for the average individual, but it’s significant to understand them so you can make the best decision for your health and well-being.
Workplace costs
The Better Hearing Institute discovered that individuals with neglected hearing loss make an average of $12,000 less yearly in comparison to those who have healthy hearing. This could be linked to the following. Research reveals that with hearing loss, you’re at increased danger of:
- Injury which can result in temporary disability
- Challenges with professional productivity
- Difficulty hearing/understanding instructions
- Overreacting to a perceived insult or unspoken message can lead to unnecessary disputes
- Missing out on promotions/raises
- Calling out of work frequently
- Social seclusion (cost fluctuates, but it can significantly increase general health decline rate)
- Depression/Anxiety ($200-$500/mo + lost workdays)
- Dementia (costs more than you want to think about)
- Fall danger increase ($15,000+)
- Increased work accident risk (varies)
- Higher likelihood of expensive hospital Emergency Room admissions (exceeds $2,000)
- Comply with the safety rules established by your employer, which may include using earplugs, masks, or other safety equipment while working. Many of these standards are aligned with OSHA standards developed to ensure your safety.
- Start open and respectful discussions with your co-workers regarding concerns related to work conditions that may result in hearing loss. Substitute aggressive language with open and transparent dialogue when communicating with management.
- To evaluate the noise levels in your surroundings, consider using a sound meter application on your mobile device, taking care to carry out the tests only when it is safe to do so. Adhere to suggested 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 instant damage.
- Get a hearing test every year to track changes over time. If you notice your hearing waning, you should consider finding a job where you are less at risk.
However, that isn’t the end of the story.
Everyday expenses
People with hearing impairment often face challenges with family and friends. According to a study, people with hearing loss often have more disagreements within their families, with 33% associating the majority of their conflicts to their hearing impairment.
A surprising one in sixteen individuals with hearing loss reports that their partner has issued a divorce warning unless they get help. Moreover, one-fifth of individuals experiencing hearing loss admit to frequently misleading their loved ones regarding how serious their condition is.
This interpersonal stress frequently expands to their professional performance. People with untreated hearing loss face twice the likelihood of becoming socially secluded from friends and family. Their lack of connections results in the absence of crucial support and comfort when experiencing sickness, mental health problems, physical traumas, or deteriorating well-being.
Costs related to medical issues
Health-related costs of neglected hearing loss include treatment for conditions that studies show are more common in people with untreated hearing loss, including:
It is important to focus on your hearing now.
Reducing your risk of hearing loss
With the escalating worldwide occurrence of hearing impairment, it is essential to initiate open and productive discussions in the workplace. Here are some recommendations:
Take proactive steps by speaking with a hearing specialist about your work environment and possible options for improving your hearing at work. Delaying action for nearly a decade can have substantial financial repercussions, making it essential to grasp the true repercussions of putting things off. The stakes are too high to postpone action.