A new UK survey from the RNID shows that many people may be living with undiagnosed hearing loss. We discuss the findings and explain how we can help

Summary

A new UK survey from RNID shows that many people may be living with undiagnosed hearing loss. Often, family and friends spot the signs first, not the individual. With hearing loss affecting around one in three adults in the UK, the findings highlight the importance of early checks. For those in Scotland, visiting Fairfield Hearing's expert audiologists in Edinburgh can make a significant difference to long-term hearing health and overall wellbeing.

Are You Missing the Signs of Hearing Loss?

A new survey from RNID has brought attention to a problem many people do not recognise in themselves. Hearing loss is often picked up by others first, not the person experiencing it. Slowly but surely we start to lose those small sounds we love the most.

The reason is simple. Hearing changes tend to happen gradually. As a result, people adjust without realising anything has changed. It's a situation we understand well at Fairfield Hearing.

You can read the original RNID report HERE

Hearing loss is more widespread than many realise

Across Scotland and the UK, hearing loss is extremely common. RNID estimates that around one in three adults are affected. Yet despite this, many people do not seek support early enough.

One of the most striking findings in the latest survey is that 50% of people say they have been accused of “not listening”. In many cases, this is not about attention. It is about clarity of sound.

The early signs are easy to overlook

Hearing loss rarely presents as complete silence. It usually begins with small changes.

People may find conversations harder to follow in busy places. Voices may seem less distinct. There can be a tendency to increase the volume on the television or ask others to repeat themselves.

Because these changes develop slowly, they are often dismissed or explained away.

Why hearing loss often goes unchecked

Many people assume hearing changes are a normal part of ageing. Others may feel uncertain about what happens during a hearing test or believe solutions are limited.

In reality, accessing a professional hearing test with Fairfield Hearing in Edinburgh is straightforward. Modern assessments are quick, comfortable, and provide clear answers.

There are also effective treatments available, from the provision of tailored hearing aids to simple procedures such as ear wax removal using safe and precise microsuction.

The wider impact on everyday life

Hearing loss affects far more than you might realise. It influences communication, confidence, and social interaction.

When hearing becomes more difficult, conversations can feel tiring. People may withdraw slightly without realising it. Over time, this can affect wellbeing and connection with others.

Early support helps prevent this. Addressing hearing changes sooner allows people to stay engaged and confident in daily life.

When should you take action?

If you have noticed even small changes, or if others have commented on your hearing, it is worth getting checked.

You do not need to wait for symptoms to become severe. Early assessment provides reassurance and clarity.

Seeing an experienced audiologist ensures you receive expert guidance tailored to your needs.

Expert insight from Fairfield Hearing

Stephen Fairfield, founder of Fairfield Hearing, explains:

“Many of our patients say the same thing. Someone close to them noticed the change first. Hearing loss often develops so gradually that people adapt without realising it. The encouraging part is that once we assess hearing properly, we can offer clear, effective solutions. Whether that is a detailed hearing test, simple ear wax removal, or tailored hearing aids, early action helps people stay connected and confident.”

To arrange a visit to Fairfield Hearing in Edinburgh or a professional home visit hearing test or hearing aid consultation, contact us today

Phone: 0131 378 5800
Email: hello@earsure.health

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the early signs of hearing loss?

Early hearing loss often develops slowly, making it easy to miss. You may find yourself asking people to repeat things, struggling in busy environments, or increasing the volume on devices. Voices can seem less clear, especially in background noise. If you notice these changes, it is worth seeing an experienced audiologist in Edinburgh. At Fairfield Hearing, we carry out detailed hearing assessments to identify even subtle changes and provide clear, tailored advice.

2. How common is hearing loss in the UK?

Hearing loss affects around one in three adults in the UK, according to RNID, and becomes more common with age. Despite this, many people delay seeking help. Accessing a professional audiologist in Edinburgh can make a significant difference. At Fairfield Hearing, we regularly support patients who are surprised by how common hearing changes are and how straightforward it is to manage them with modern hearing solutions and expert care.

3. Why do people say I am not listening?

If others often say you are not listening, it may be a sign of reduced hearing rather than a lack of attention. Certain speech sounds can become harder to detect, especially in noisy environments, leading to misunderstandings. A professional hearing test in Edinburgh can quickly identify whether hearing loss is the cause. Fairfield Hearing provides clear, accurate assessments so patients can understand what is happening and take appropriate action.

4. What happens during a hearing test in Edinburgh?

A hearing test in Edinburgh is simple, painless, and informative. At Fairfield Hearing, your audiologist will assess how well you hear different tones and speech in various conditions. The results are explained clearly, with time to discuss any concerns. If needed, recommendations may include hearing aids or further support. The aim is always to provide a personalised plan that suits your lifestyle and hearing needs.

5. Can ear wax cause hearing problems?

Yes, a build-up of ear wax can reduce hearing and cause symptoms such as blocked ears or discomfort. In many cases, this can be resolved quickly with professional ear wax removal in Edinburgh. At Fairfield Hearing, we use microsuction, a safe and precise method that gently removes wax without the need for water. Microsuction in Edinburgh is widely regarded as one of the most effective and comfortable ways to restore hearing clarity.

6. What are the benefits of modern hearing aids?

Modern hearing aids in Edinburgh are highly advanced, discreet, and tailored to individual hearing needs. They can improve clarity in conversations, reduce listening effort, and enhance overall quality of life. At Fairfield Hearing, we carefully select and programme hearing aids based on detailed assessments. This ensures each patient receives a solution that fits comfortably into their daily routine while delivering clear and natural sound.

7. When should I see an audiologist in Edinburgh?

You should consider seeing an audiologist in Edinburgh as soon as you notice any changes in your hearing, or if others comment on it. Early assessment helps prevent further decline and makes treatment more effective. At Fairfield Hearing, we provide expert, personalised care from the first appointment. Whether you need a hearing test, microsuction, or advice on hearing aids, early action can make a lasting difference.

About the author and our chief audiologist

Stephen Fairfield BSc (Hons) Audiology – Audiologist, Fairfield Hearing (Edinburgh)

Stephen Fairfield is a fully qualified audiologist and founder of Fairfield Hearing in Edinburgh. He provides independent hearing assessments, hearing aid fittings, and specialist domiciliary (home visit) audiology services across Edinburgh and Scotland.

His clinical approach focuses on careful assessment, clear explanation, and practical hearing solutions tailored to individual listening needs. All assessments are carried out personally by Stephen to ensure continuity of care, clinical accuracy, and professional accountability.

• BSc (Hons) in Audiology
• Clinical training in diagnostic hearing assessment and hearing aid rehabilitation
• Extensive experience providing domiciliary (home visit) hearing care
• Expertise in modern digital hearing aid programming and rechargeable hearing aid technology
• Patient-focused appointments with time for questions and clear next steps

Last reviewed and updated: March 17th 2026

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