Factors Influencing the Waiting Time Between Hearing Loss Diagnosis and Hearing Aid Purchase: A Study of Individuals with Hearing Loss

<b>Background:</b> Hearing loss is a significant global issue. Individuals affected by this condition face numerous challenges in their daily lives, including difficulties in communication, social isolation, and a diminished quality of life. Thus, early diagnosis and prompt initiation of usage of hearing aids are crucial to mitigate the adverse effects of hearing loss.<b>Purpose:</b> This study aimed to examine the amount of time it takes for an individual to obtain hearing aids after a diagnosis of hearing loss. In addition, it attempted to identify factors that affect individuals in this process.<b>Research Design:</b> This was a cross-sectional survey study.<b>Study Sample:</b> The study comprised 150 individuals who were using hearing aids and were aged 18 years and over. There was an equal distribution of 75 females and 75 males.<b>Data Collection and Analysis:</b> A 23-item questionnaire was given to the participants in order to evaluate the factors that affected the participants with hearing loss in the process of obtaining hearing aids. In addition to this, the date of the hearing loss diagnosis and the date of the hearing aid purchase were calculated. Statistical analyses were made between calculated time and demographic information as well as the survey questions.<b>Results:</b> A significant association was observed between the time of purchasing hearing aids and the deterioration in social relations or fear of exclusion from society (p &#60; 0.05). Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between the time of purchasing hearing aids and the individual&#8217;s educational level. Specifically, differences were noted in the purchase time for hearing aids between high school graduates and primary school graduates (p &#60; 0.05). Additionally, the average duration between the diagnosis of hearing loss and the purchase of hearing aids was found to be 3 years.<b>Conclusions:</b> We observed that individuals with hearing loss tend to delay the purchase of hearing aids, and various factors influence this decision. These findings highlight the importance of implementing interventions aimed at facilitating earlier access to hearing aids, thus reducing the negative effects associated with untreated hearing loss.