Not being able to see isolates you from objects. Not being able to hear isolates you from people” (Imanuel Kant)

Hearing fulfils several purposes: it is essential for verbal communication – not only do we hear words but also the nuances in tone which often determine the exact meaning – and for the acquisition of speech. Additionally, it is required for the perception of sound (e.g. music) and it is useful for orientation, as e.g. an approaching vehicle is often heard and located before it is actually seen.

Hearing impairment affects approximately 10% of the population. Although people of all ages can be affected by a hearing loss, the majority of people with impaired hearing are over 60 years old and their hearing loss is related to the ageing process. As a rule the deterioration of hearing ability is not painful and is therefore often not taken seriously.