If you are experiencing hearing loss, you are not alone. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, more than 15% of people in the United States experience some degree of hearing loss. Hearing loss can have several causes, including injuries, chronic exposure to loud noises, infections, and age-related changes.
Regardless of its cause, hearing loss can significantly affect a person’s life at work and at home. But what actually qualifies as a disability? Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a disability is defined as “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities of an individual.” This definition can apply differently to people with hearing loss, depending on their individual circumstances.
The severity of hearing loss and its impact on daily activities can help determine whether it qualifies as a disability under the ADA. For example, mild hearing loss may have a limited effect on a person’s ability to communicate. However, severe or profound hearing loss that substantially affects communication, work, or other major life activities may qualify as a disability.
Under the ADA, qualified individuals with disabilities are protected against discrimination in employment and have protections related to public accommodations. Employers and covered businesses may be required to provide reasonable accommodations to help ensure equal access and opportunities. Housing discrimination is also addressed under other applicable laws, including the Fair Housing Act.
If you are experiencing hearing loss that affects your daily life, consider consulting a hearing healthcare professional. You may also wish to speak with a disability rights advocate to learn more about your rights and available options.
If you are currently looking for a job, it is important to understand your rights during the hiring process. Under the ADA, employers generally cannot ask applicants disability-related questions or require medical examinations before making a conditional job offer. However, they may ask whether an applicant can perform specific job-related functions, with or without reasonable accommodation. Questions about hearing-related abilities must comply with applicable disability discrimination laws.
Hearing loss can feel overwhelming, especially when it affects your career. If you have questions about your hearing or would like to schedule an evaluation, contact the team at El Dorado Hearing. Their services include individual consultations, speech tests, sound tests, and ear canal examinations. The team can review your results with you and help you understand your hearing care options.
Not every type of hearing loss requires hearing aids. However, if you notice that hearing difficulties are affecting your work or home life, scheduling a hearing evaluation can help you understand your needs and explore appropriate solutions.
Contact the El Dorado Hearing team today to take the first step toward better hearing and clearer communication!