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By Alice Gibbs
Senior Reporter
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Hearing loss is no longer just a concern for older generations—Gen Z is experiencing symptoms at alarming rates, and experts warn that personal listening habits may be to blame.
A 2024 survey by Synchrony revealed that over half of Gen Z (those born between 1997 and 2012) have experienced a symptom of hearing loss in the last six months, yet 30 percent are hesitant to consult a specialist for help.
Researchers surveyed 2,001 U.S adults aged 18-55 and interviewed 26 audiologists with an average of 19.6 years in practice, making some concerning discoveries.
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Audiologists say prolonged headphone use at high volumes is a major culprit. On average, Gen Z wears headphones for 4.2 hours per day—more than twice as long as previous generations. Dr. Rachel Artsma, a senior audiologist at hear.com, said constant exposure to loud audio through personal listening devices (PLDs) puts young people at risk of early hearing impairment.
What Is the 60/60 Rule?
To help prevent long-term damage, experts recommend following the 60/60 rule.
"When using personal listening devices, following the 60/60 rule is a good practice—keeping the volume at no more than 60 percent of the maximum level and limiting listening time to 60 minutes at a time. This helps reduce the risk of long-term damage," Artsma told Newsweek. "This simple practice can help reduce the risk of hearing loss and tinnitus."
A 2022 study published in BMJ Global Health found that between 670 million and 1.35 billion people worldwide are at risk of hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices, with PLDs and loud entertainment venues as the main contributors.
"This trend suggests that Gen Z could experience hearing loss at earlier ages compared to previous generations, highlighting the need for greater awareness and preventative measures," Artsma told Newsweek.
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By the time many young people seek professional help, their hearing is already impaired. Artsma revealed the key warning signs of hearing loss:
"Common signs of hearing loss include frequently asking others to repeat themselves, difficulty understanding conversations in noisy environments, and the need to increase the volume on the TV or radio beyond what others find comfortable," she said. "People may experience a persistent ringing in their ears, known as tinnitus. If someone notices these symptoms, it is beneficial to seek a hearing care professional."
In addition to following the 60/60 rule, Artsma suggested other measures: "One of the most important steps young people can take to prevent hearing loss is using hearing protection in loud environments. This includes wearing earplugs around loud noises such as concerts, sporting events, or when using loud machinery."
If someone is concerned about their hearing, Artsma advises that the first step is scheduling a hearing evaluation with a professional, such as an audiologist or hearing specialist.
"For many people, hearing loss is a natural part of life. In the U.S., nearly 38 million adults experience some degree of hearing loss. With the right hearing care, they can significantly improve their quality of life and continue to fully engage with the world around them," she said.
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