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And 81 percent of those with hearing issues have missed their phone ringing entirely.

But seven in ten have put up with the issues as long as they can remember – with eight in ten fearing it’s too late to do anything about the deterioration.

Gordon Harrison, chief audiologist at Specsavers, which commissioned the research, said: “The figures clearly show how a decline in your hearing can have a serious impact on your life.

“Often hearing can decline over a long period of time, so it can creep up on people without them really noticing, until there’s an obvious problem.

“That’s not to say they shouldn’t seek help, as there are many ways to help improve your hearing.

“But it seems as though there may be a lack of understanding on how to protect yourself from the damaging long-term effects of loud noise, and how to improve your situation if you are struggling.”

It also emerged 82 percent of those with hearing difficulties believe their issues have impacted their quality of life.

And according to 39 percent, the deterioration has been a very gradual process.

But 79 percent admit they often feel left out because of their difficulties.

It also emerged 45 percent of all adults fear a hearing decline – yet 32 percent of those with children don’t encourage their children to look after theirs while they are young.

Of the 44 percent that do, they encourage them to turn their music down, take regular breaks when exposed to loud noise, and avoid using cotton buds.

Nearly half (45 percent) also admitted to ignoring warnings on smartphones about listening to music too loudly.

And only 13 percent have had a hearing test this year, with the average test taking place every three-and-a-half years.

However, a third of those polled, via OnePoll, have never had a test at all.

Gordon Harrison added: “It’s worth having your hearing checked if you notice a change in your hearing, no matter what your age.

“For those who are struggling, a hearing test can provide a real insight into the problem while providing solutions, which could significantly improve an individual’s quality of life.

“It’s definitely well worth getting your hearing checked regularly, to make sure you can continue to enjoy life to the fullest.”

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