ORCA Labs: Empowerment in hearing health – A call to action for World Hearing Day

Imagine navigating a conversation without hearing half the words. For millions, this is daily life. Yet, many hesitate to seek support – not because solutions don’t exist, but because hearing healthcare isn’t just about technology – it’s also about active participation and self-efficacy. 

 World Hearing Day 2025 calls on us to change our mindsets and take action. By embracing knowledge, confidence, and strategies, we can shift hearing care from passive treatment to active self-management and sense of empowerment. 

Healthcare is evolving, with empowerment at its core – giving individuals the ability to navigate their hearing health with self-efficacy, skills and control. In hearing healthcare, this is especially critical, as hearing loss directly impacts communication, relationships, and emotional well-being. 

At ORCA Labs, the Scientific Institute of WS Audiology, researchers have together with NAL, Curtin University and Örebro University been researching hearing health empowerment since 2020, recognizing that hearing care is more than just technology – it’s about individuals having the tools to take ownership of their hearing journey.  

Gitte Engelund, Team Lead, ORCA Labs, explains:

“Empowerment research shows that being empowered lead to better treatment adherence, increased satisfaction, timely help-seeking, active participation in one’s healthcare, and overall improved emotional well-being.”  

 She continues:

“However, many individuals live with hearing loss for years without recognizing it, unknowingly adapting in ways that increase stress and social withdrawal. Early hearing loss recognition is key, enabling individuals to take control, make informed decisions, and embrace solutions that enhance their quality of life.” 

 But what does empowerment truly mean in hearing healthcare? How can it be measured, and how can we integrate it into clinical practice? 

 

What is empowerment in hearing healthcare? 

 Based on our research, ORCA Labs define empowerment in hearing health as: 

The process through which individuals with hearing-related challenges acquire and use knowledge, skills, and strategies, and increase self-efficacy, participation, and control of their hearing healthcare, hearing solutions, and everyday lives.  

Empowerment in hearing healthcare is built on five key dimensions: 

• Knowledge – Understanding hearing challenges, available solutions, and rehabilitation options. 

• Skills & Strategies – Using effective communication techniques, managing hearing instruments, and adapting to different listening environments. 

• Self-Efficacy – Confidence in managing hearing-related difficulties and using hearing solutions effectively. 

• Participation – Actively engaging in hearing care, making decisions, and maintaining social connections. 

• Control – Taking an active role in managing hearing challenges and making informed choices. 

 

Hearing loss affects communication, relationships, and emotional well-being, often leading to frustration, withdrawal, and a loss of confidence. Hearing aids play a crucial role in empowerment by restoring access to sound, enabling individuals to participate in conversations, maintain relationships, and stay engaged in daily life. 

However, true empowerment is not just about wearing hearing aids—it’s about having control over one’s hearing health. While hearing aids enhance communication, empowerment comes from understanding hearing challenges, making informed decisions, and adapting strategies that fit individual needs.  

Some individuals choose alternative communication strategies, while others may opt out of using hearing devices altogether. What matters most is not the tool itself, but the confidence and ability to manage hearing challenges effectively.  

Hearing aids support empowerment, but real empowerment means feeling independent and in control, no matter which solutions one chooses. 

 Gitte Engelund:
 “Empowerment means breaking down barriers, increasing hearing loss recognition, and ensuring everyone has access to the tools and support they need. When empowerment leads the way, no one needs to face hearing challenges alone. In recognition of World Hearing Day, let’s do more than raise awareness – let’s drive real change.” 

 

Read the full article about Empowerment in Hearing Health at ORCA Labs.