Hearing loss is often perceived as a condition primarily affecting older patients, but it is also becoming increasingly common among teenagers. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in five teens experiences some level of hearing loss—likely due to increased noise exposure.
In the past, many teens have avoided seeking treatment for hearing loss because of a perceived stigma; however, research has shown that this is beginning to shift.
Signs of Hearing Loss in Teens
Since teens do not receive regular hearing screenings, it’s important to keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
- Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
- Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds
- Struggling to differentiate similar consonant sounds, such as s/f, p/t, sh/th
- Difficulty hearing in noisy places or on phone calls
Teens and Hearing Aids
Modern hearing aids are more discreet than their older counterparts. They offer Bluetooth® connectivity to smart devices and built-in volume limits to ensure safe listening. Additionally, some can withstand sweat, humidity and water, making them a great fit for teens’ active lifestyles.
- One study found that teens consistently wear their hearing aids, typically for eight to ten hours daily.
- The same study found that teens with hearing loss were not bullied more often than their classmates with healthy hearing.1
If your teen is experiencing signs of hearing loss, our hearing care professionals are here to help. As they navigate school and extracurricular activities, hearing aids will help them fully engage with their environment. We will provide hearing aids that will be the best fit for their needs.
1. Walker, E. A., Spratford, M., Foody, M., & McCreery, R. (2025). Characteristics of Hearing Aid Use in Adolescents Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Language Speech and Hearing Services in Schools, 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1044/2025_lshss-24-00096