Let's hear it for the Anzacs!

Anzac Day is a time to remember and honour the sacrifices made by the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) in service to their countries.

It is also an opportunity to reflect on the impact of their experiences, including the effects on their physical and mental health.

One area that is often overlooked is the impact of hearing on our Australian veterans.

Hearing loss is a common problem for veterans, particularly those who have been exposed to loud noises or explosions, like our retired veteran friend Barry "Bazza". He shared his story with us recently.

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It is estimated that up to 60% of veterans experience hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) as a result of their service. This can have a significant impact on their overall wellbeing, including their ability to communicate with loved ones, participate in social activities, and even find employment.

While noise induced hearing loss can have a profound impact on communication and social engagement, severe tinnitus can be extremely draining emotionally and have huge effect on mental health and wellbeing. 

The most common cause of tinnitus is prolonged exposure to loud noise and it is estimated up to 90% of those with tinnitus have some level of noise induced hearing loss (WebMD https://www.webmd.com/understanding-tinnitus-basics.) putting those in the armed forces at an increased risk.

Can:Do Hearing offers tinnitus support appointments where we discuss the nature of your tinnitus, possible causes and management strategies.

Fortunately, there are a number of resources and programs in place to support the hearing health of Australian veterans.

The Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) provides a range of services to veterans with hearing loss, including fully subsidised hearing aids and assistive listening devices. They also offer rehabilitation services to help veterans manage their hearing loss and improve their quality of life.

The Commonwealth Government Hearing Service Program (HSP) manages the delivery of hearing services and subsidised hearing aids to eligible clients. If you hold a Centrelink pension card or a DVA Gold Card or White Card specifying hearing, you are eligible.

Can:Do Hearing is accredited to provide subsidised services through the Hearing Services Program to pensioners and DVA card holders.

The community perception towards those who have a hearing loss can be challenging. We encourage empathy and compassion for people with hearing loss.

Barry puts it quite simply, "I need to look after myself. My quality of life has really improved by hearing what’s going on!”

While there is still much work to be done to support the hearing health of Australian veterans, these resources and programs are an important step in the right direction.

As we remember the sacrifices made by our ANZACs this Anzac Day, let us also remember the ongoing challenges faced by our veterans and commit to supporting their overall wellbeing.

That sounds better.