Examine captivating facts behind these nationwide walks that raise awareness about hearing loss.
The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) Walk4Hearing began in 2006 as a way to raise funds and advocate for people who experience some degree of hearing loss. Since it’s inception, CapTel is proud to be a long-standing sponsor as we help to build awareness about hearing loss and hearing loss prevention. Read on to discover the captivating story behind these nationwide walks for hearing loss and how you can get involved. But first, let’s talk about hearing loss to help illustrate the need for these important events.
How prevalent is hearing loss?
Hearing loss is so common that is has likely impacted you or someone you know. Around 48 million Americans experience hearing loss. This number exceeds those with Parkinson’s, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes – combined. Hearing loss can occur at any age and affects both men and women.
Doctors recommend that you have your hearing tested every ten years until you turn 50, and every three years after that. While people with hearing loss wait an average of 7 years before seeking help, there are many options out there to improve the everyday experiences of living with hearing loss.
What is HLAA Walk4Hearing?
HLAA Walk4Hearing is a national program that began in 2006 to help support people with hearing loss, their families, friends, and hearing health professionals by raising awareness, funds, and resources for the community. Almost 100,000 walkers and 8,300 teams have participated in events all across the country. This year, the organization hopes to raise $1.3 million to support national advocacy and financial assistance efforts.
Walk4Hearing also offers free hearing screenings for participants. In 2018, nearly 400 walkers took the challenge and had their hearing checked. A screening is a great first step in both hearing loss prevention, detection, and treatment. This year, HLAA is again offering free screenings at any of their events. Find a location near you for more details.
How are funds from Walk4Hearing used?
Nationally, funds raised by HLAA’s Walk4Hearing help with advocacy efforts for public policy, research, and resource toolkits for the workplace and medical settings. On a local level, funds support college tuition scholarships for students with hearing loss, hearing aids and devices for those who cannot afford them, and community resources such as captioning services or assistive listening devices.
Since 2006, the events have raised more than $13 million to support people with hearing loss.
How can you get involved?
Here’s how you can get involved with HLAA Walk4Hearing:
- Form an Alliance: Rally your team and raise funds through your nonprofit organization or school to support Walk4Hearing.
- Register for a Walk: Get involved directly by signing up for your local Walk4Hearing event.
- Sponsor a Walker or Team: Find a walker or team in your area to support and help Walk4Hearing.
- Volunteer: Become a Walk Day Volunteer or join the Walk Committee.
Learn more about HLAA Walk4Hearing, meet the Honorary Chair, and sign up to participate on the HLAA website. For more helpful hearing loss articles, check out our blog. If you or someone you love experiences hearing loss, find out how a CapTel captioned telephone can help you catch every word.
