North Brunswick, NJ — Hearing aid developer and manufacturer Songbird Hearing Inc has announced the results of its consumer survey, which examined consumer knowledge and perception of hearing issues and technology. The survey of 526 consumers reveals that cost is the leading factor affecting hearing aid use.

The nation-wide study polled 526 American consumers ages 21-75. Among the survey’s most significant findings:

  • 88% of respondents estimated the average cost of a professional hearing aid to be $500 or higher, and 51% estimated the average cost to be $1,100 or higher.
  • 82% of respondents ranked the overall health of their hearing very important and 64% have worried about their hearing.
  • 42% were unaware that just 5 minutes of exposure a day to listening to music on an iPod at full volume can put them at risk of permanent hearing loss.
  • 43% were unaware that a clap of thunder from a nearby storm (120 dB) or a gunshot (140-190 dB, depending on weapon) can both cause immediate damage.
  • 79% of respondents have difficulty hearing or know someone who has difficulty hearing.
  • 83% of respondents between the ages of 21 and 45 have been home for the holidays and found an older family member or friend blasting the volume on their TV.
  • 49% of respondents between the ages of 46 and 75 felt that difficulty hearing in certain situations has negatively impacted their enjoyment.
  • Only 34% of respondents were aware that roughly 35 million people suffer from hearing loss in the United States today and less than 25% are doing anything about it.
  • 61% of responders said that the greatest barrier to why people do not purchase hearing devices was cost, followed by comfort and size/bulkiness. Additionally, consumers perceived the cost of hearing aid technology to be expensive.

Conducted in May 2011, the survey polled 526 US consumers ages 21-75, to gauge their awareness and perception of digital hearing technology, and garner information on their perceptions and knowledge associated with hearing loss.

Songbird manufactures hearing aids for mild to moderate hearing loss, marketing their devices directly to consumers without requiring a professional hearing evaluation.

To receive a complete summary of the results, visit www.songbirdhearing.com.

SOURCE: Songbird Hearing Inc