The Effect of an Aging Population on Hearing Loss

Purpose This study aims to analyze and predict the impact of aging population on hearing loss, based on the awareness that age-related disabilities are becoming increasingly significant due to a rapidly aging society. Methods A cointegration model was adopted to investigate the time series relationship between the elderly population and the people with hearing loss, estimated using the fully modified least squares method. Utilizing the regression analysis of time series statistical package, Korean data from 2007 to 2025 were analyzed, and projections were made using population estimates extending to the year 2030. Results We find that the aging population had a significant effect on the people with hearing loss. The prevalence of hearing loss increases with age, exhibiting regional variations, but without significant gender disparities. The projected number of the people with hearing loss is expected to rise sharply from 480,862 in 2025 to 596,345 by 2030. Conclusion A significant increase in the prevalence of age-related hearing loss was projected. Our findings contribute to the formulation of healthcare and welfare policies tailored to hearing loss in an aging society