Estimated statistics reveal that approximately 1 520 million citizens (20% of the Western Cape population of 7.6 million) experience some degree of hearing loss, with 456 000 individuals (30% of those with hearing loss) being persons with a hearing disability.
Key Statistics
1 520 million citizens (20% of 7.6 million) experience some degree of hearing loss, of which 30% (456 000 individuals) are persons with hearing disabilities. Of these 456 000 individuals, 364 800 (80%) are non-sign language users and 91 200 (20%) use South African Sign Language (SASL). The non-SASL users are made up of 72 960 (20%) who use hearing aids and 291 840 (80%) who do not use any hearing device.
The consequences of unaddressed hearing loss includes -
Cognitive decline
Social isolation
Decreased quality of life
Limited access to education, employment, and healthcare
Increased risk of mental health issues (e.g. depression, anxiety)
FanieDreams proposes the following recommendations:
Increase funding for hearing aid subsidies and audiology services.
Enhance awareness campaigns on hearing loss and device benefits.
Improve accessibility to hearing healthcare services, especially in rural areas.
Explore alternative assistive technologies (e.g., cochlear implants, FM systems).
Support education and training for hearing care professionals.
Collaborate with government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations.
Develop public awareness campaigns (media, community events)
Establish hearing healthcare clinics in underserved areas
Establish accessible and affordable Aural Rehabilitation services.
Establish accessible vocational rehabilitation services.
Establish habilitation services.
Established Resource Centers for Assistive Listening and Living Devices
Facilitate Universal Access Assessments focusing on access to products, services, and environments.
Facilitate employment opportunities and reasonable accommodation in line with disability legislation, codes, and guidelines
We at Fanie Dreams have opened this discussion, as we believe that it is crucial to address the alarming rise of untreated hearing loss in the Western Cape. We are concerned about the exclusion of persons with hearing loss who do not use a signed language as their primary method of communication. We further urge policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to propose realistic recommendations to ensure inclusive policies, equity, and funding allocations.
Please join this conversation! Share your thoughts and suggestions on addressing hearing impairment and deafness in the Western Cape. Let's work together to create a more inclusive and supportive community for all!
Resources:
1. World Health Organization (WHO)—Hearing Loss Prevention
2. World Report on Hearing 2021(WHO)
3. National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities
4. Road To Independence
5. Census 2022
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