Core Insights - The prevalence of moderate to severe hearing loss among individuals aged 65 and older in China exceeds 33%, affecting over 120 million elderly people, with the rate rising to approximately 50% for those aged 75 and above [1][2] - The current market supply model is inadequate to address the urgent public health challenge posed by hearing loss among the elderly, necessitating a paradigm shift in hearing health management [1] - There is a significant delay in seeking intervention for hearing loss, averaging 7 to 10 years, which results in missed opportunities for effective treatment [1] Group 1: Market Demand and Supply - The penetration rate of hearing aids in China is less than 5%, significantly lower than the 30% to 40% rates in developed countries [3] - High costs of imported hearing aids, often exceeding tens of thousands of yuan, and complex fitting processes deter elderly users from seeking help [3] - Domestic manufacturers are introducing lower-cost "assistive headphones" to lower barriers to entry and stimulate market growth, but these products often lack professional support and accuracy [3][4] Group 2: Impact on Health - Hearing loss in the elderly is linked to broader health issues, including cognitive decline and increased risk of conditions like Alzheimer's disease, with about 24% of elderly hearing loss patients experiencing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety [2][4] - The lack of timely intervention can lead to severe negative consequences, emphasizing the need for immediate and effective hearing health services [2] Group 3: Service and Professional Support - Only 2% of fitting institutions provide comprehensive professional services for hearing aids, and 68% of users have not received any follow-up care or rehabilitation consultations [4] - The industry is currently focused on hardware specifications and price competition, neglecting the core user needs for effective hearing solutions [4][5] Group 4: Industry Trends and Innovations - International hearing health device manufacturers are increasing investments in the Chinese market, anticipating a doubling of the population aged 60 and above in the next 25 years [6] - Domestic companies are making technological advancements, including AI integration in hearing aids, to enhance user experience and accessibility [6][7] - New subscription models for hearing aids are being explored, aiming to democratize access to hearing health solutions [7]
银发经济｜超1.2亿老人困于“无声世界”， 助听设备鱼龙混杂，如何唤醒沉默的刚需
Di Yi Cai Jing·2025-10-29 06:18