"Survey reveals that over half of Gen Z individuals have already faced hearing issues due to excessive exposure to loud music"
In a recent survey conducted by the Royal National Institute for Deaf people (RNID), it was revealed that despite being aware of the risks, a significant number of Generation Z individuals are not taking the necessary steps to protect their hearing. The survey, which polled 2000 people aged between 18 and 28, found that 75% of the respondents were aware of the risks of permanent hearing loss from loud music. However, despite this awareness, 35% of the respondents did not plan on wearing earplugs or hearing protection.
Franki Oliver, the Audiology Manager at RNID, commented on the survey findings, stating that exposure to loud sound levels is a leading cause of hearing loss and tinnitus. She further emphasized that this is one of the most preventable causes of hearing issues.
To combat this issue, earplug manufacturers and live promoters are actively encouraging Generation Z to use hearing protection at gigs and festivals. Measures include the provision of free earplugs at venues and festivals, promotion and education on hearing health, variety and customization of earplugs, integrated festival messaging, and highlighting the experience benefits.
Many music venues, bars, and festivals now provide free earplugs at bars or guest services, making them easily accessible to attendees who forget to bring their own. Campaigns often emphasize the risks of loud music, including long-term hearing loss and tinnitus, especially since concerts often exceed safe noise levels (100-120 dB) that can cause damage within minutes.
Manufacturers offer earplugs in diverse shapes, sizes, colours, and styles, including reusable filtered earplugs and even custom-made versions, to appeal to personal preferences and lifestyles of younger audiences. Promoters include hearing protection advice in their health and safety communications, normalizing the behaviour as part of festival preparation alongside weather and emergency tips.
By explaining how effective earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can reduce sound fatigue and protect hearing without sacrificing sound quality, manufacturers and promoters target Gen Z's interest in technology and quality experiences.
The survey findings suggest a need for earplug manufacturers and live promoters to consider ways to make earplugs more appealing to this age group. In response, 20% of the respondents said they would wear earplugs if they were given out for free or if they were more comfortable. Furthermore, 28% of the respondents said they would be more likely to use earplugs if they could still enjoy live music.
Franki Oliver expressed encouragement that more people would be willing to take steps to protect their hearing if they knew they could still enjoy the full live music experience. She also mentioned that the RNID offers a free online hearing test for those concerned about their hearing.
The newsletter for MusicRadar is available for subscribers to receive updates on music and gear news, reviews, deals, features, and more. Stay tuned for more updates on how earplug manufacturers and live promoters are working together to protect the hearing of Generation Z at concerts and festivals.
- The survey conducted by the Royal National Institute for Deaf people (RNID) also revealed that many Generation Z individuals are not aware of the importance of nutrition in maintaining good mental health and overall health-and-wellness.
- To further promote wellness among Generation Z, some music festivals have started incorporating fitness-and-exercise classes and healthy food options into their line-up of events, whilst also providing information on mental-health resources and support.
- As part of their commitment to health-and-wellness, these forward-thinking events are recognizing the synergy between hearing protection, fitness, nutrition, and mental health, intending to ensure a holistic approach towards the well-being of their attendees.
