More than half of people in Exmouth ignore their hearing problems.
A study by Specsavers found that 33 per cent of South West residents have noticed a negative change in hearing over the last ten years.
Yet 51 per cent of them have not taken any action, such as booking a hearing test.
Donna Morgan, director of Specsavers audiology for Exmouth, said: "Part of the stigma around hearing loss is the fear of having to wear a hearing aid, but this shouldn’t be the case anymore."
She further stated: "Ensuring hearing issues are identified early is key.
"As well as improving quality of life, early detection can also help prevent other conditions such as early-onset dementia."
53 per cent said they'd be encouraged to take a hearing test if it was free, which is the case at Specsavers.
They found that 55 per cent of South West individuals have never had their hearing tested, despite 56 percent admitting they can’t hear in busy areas and more than a quarter (26 per cent) needing others to speak louder or repeat themselves.
TV medic Dr Michael Mosley explained: "Hearing loss is completely normal and often a part of the ageing process.
"Starting honest conversations can lead to a shift in the stigma attached.
"It’s important to remember that hearing loss is nothing to be embarrassed or ashamed about – lots of people suffer from it".
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