By Stephen Beech

One in three people over the age of 50 is keeping their hearing loss a secret, according to a new study.

They often do so because they fear being judged, suggest the findings.

The large-scale international study found that hearing loss is still linked to stereotypes about aging and disability, which can stop people from seeking help.

The findings, published in the International Journal of Audiology , highlights the emotional and social toll of hearing loss and why it’s time to talk about it.

Hearing loss can lead to low self-esteem, loneliness, memory problems and even depression, say experts.

Nearly 60% of people with hearing loss said others had laughed at or joked about their hearing difficulties, leaving them feeling uncomfortable and frustrated.

Many choos

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