Here’s a fact that will catch a cost-conscious employer’s ear: The number of adults experiencing hearing loss in their 20s and 30s is on the rise, according to the Better Hearing Institute. And of those who go untreated, National Center for Health Statistics data reveals 95% are affected in their on-the-job performance.

This can be costly to employers not only in terms of workplace production, but also in long-term health care. Roughly 15% of American adults report some trouble hearing. What’s worse for employers is that mature adults and diabetics are likely to have both hearing and vision loss.  

Considering the importance of communication in the workplace, and the fact that people are working longer, the related costs of these health challenges will only amplify if they’re left undiagnosed and untreated.

The answer is prevention, proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment to avoid further deterioration. Comprehensive ancillary benefits that cover both vision and hearing care save employers money, and are an investment — boosting a company’s wellness efforts and competitive edge.

Making it easy with a 2-for-1 solution with EyeMed and Amplifon

EyeMed wanted to be part of that solution for members. So we teamed up with Amplifon Hearing Health Care, the nation’s largest independent hearing discount network, to make affordable hearing care available to EyeMed members. This access to special savings on hearing aids and hearing exams is part of EyeMed benefits — at no additional cost. How sweet is it to hear that?
Our timing is intentional. May is observed as “Better Hearing Month” by the American Academy of Audiology, and it serves as a great time to spotlight just how much vision and hearing health go hand-in-hand.

Nearly 10% of people 70 and older report problems with both vision and hearing. Other studies also correlate poor visual performance of any measure with a higher likelihood of hearing loss.

Each of these conditions on their own can result in workplace accidents, such as falls. And, as hearing loss is twice as common in people with diabetes,  vision problems are also more prevalent. Those with diabetes are 40% more likely to have glaucoma and 60% more likely to develop cataracts, according to the American Diabetes Association.

It just makes sense to pair up the savings on hearing and vision as a highly effective and easy way to get more value out of the benefits dollar. 

Hear me clearly - 95% of hearing loss is treatable

The Amplifon savings program makes it easy for EyeMed members to improve their hearing by offering a range of hearing aids from most major manufacturers, including those with the newest, most advanced technology.

This is big news, because nearly 95% of Americans with hearing loss can be easily treated with hearing aids. How common is hearing loss in your workplace? Consider these statistics:

• 65% of those with hearing loss are younger than retirement age.
• More than 10% of full-time employees have a diagnosed hearing problem.
• Another 30% suspect they have a problem but have not sought treatment.

Ears, eyes and know

The connection between vision and hearing loss has been studied and proven. Its effect on the workplace can be wide-reaching. A combination of vision and hearing benefits can empower your employees to live healthier lives and be more engaged and productive in the workplace.

If you already have EyeMed benefits and would like more information about the Amplifon Hearing Discount program—talk to your account manager or share this site with your members.

If your organization doesn't have EyeMed vision benefits and you want to learn more, you can request that an EyeMed representative contact you at eyemed.com. At this site, you also can review our hearing discount overview and other helpful resources about EyeMed vision benefits.