If you have a hearing problem, you aren't alone. According to the Australian Network on Disability, 1 in 6 Aussies is afflicted with hearing loss at any given time*. There are plenty of successful, famous people who are thriving with the help of hearing aids. From politicians and actors to musicians, there are many people to look at for inspiration when it comes to navigating your hearing loss, according to online magazine Health*.
Pete Townshend
This iconic instrumentalist, songwriter and lead guitarist of The Who battles hearing loss, likely as a result of years of exposure to loud music at his band's widely attended concerts.1 In fact, back in 1976, the group earned a Guinness World record for playing the loudest concert in history – revving up to a volume of 126 dB 100 feet from the stage, according to Gibson*. Townshend hasn't let his hearing loss get him down – he still tours with The Who and even published a book of memoirs*.
Bill Clinton
Former US president Bill Clinton began wearing hearing aids in 1997 in the midst of his time serving as president*. Hearing aids helped him navigate the final years of his time in office, and have served him well as he has continued to work in the public eye and run his global organisation, The Clinton Foundation, which is celebrating its 10th birthday this year.
William Shatnet
Actor William Shatner wears hearing aids due to his affliction with tinnitus.
"Regardless of the characters I portray on TV and on the big screen, my tinnitus once buried me in a negative place where many of you are now – or have been," he wrote for the American Tinnitus Association. "Believe me when I say, "I've been there."*
Today, after seeking the help of professionals, Shatner has successfully continued pursuing his long-time career in acting.