Remembering Those Who Served
As we solemnly reflect and remember today as we mark ANZAC Day, communities across the nation pause to honour the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who have served, and continue to serve, our country.
While parades, dawn services, and moments of silence pay tribute to the fallen, today also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by many veterans, particularly those related to their health and wellbeing. Among the less visible issues are hearing loss and tinnitus, conditions significantly affecting those who have worn the uniform.
A Focus on Ear and Hearing Health Challenges
Members of the Australian Defence Force are frequently exposed to high-intensity noise, both during training and active duty. This repeated exposure places them at a significantly increased risk of developing hearing-related conditions. Research shows that even when standard hearing tests appear normal, noise-induced damage may still be present. Known as hidden hearing loss. This condition affects speech clarity and often contributes to the onset of tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears.
Mike Forster, a seven-year Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) veteran who served through the late 1970s and 80s, shared his personal hearing journey as a client of Lions Hearing Clinic. “I saw much of my service in RAAF Butterworth, Malaysia. It is from this time I attribute most of my hearing loss from exposure to jet noise,” he explained. “On discharge, I realised I had a high frequency hearing loss. For many years I ignored it and worked around it, until I realised it was increasingly affecting my work, home, and social life.”
Like many veterans, Mike initially tried to adapt in silence but eventually sought help; and the impact was life-changing.
“Lions Hearing Clinic changed many things for me through meticulous attention to my hearing loss. They also arranged, through the DVA, a Roger remote microphone system to help in social events and crowded places, to pick up voices far better,” he said. “I have nothing but praise for their service; it transformed many parts of my life. I hadn’t realised just how much I was missing out on.”
Clinicians and researchers at Lions Hearing Clinics have observed that for many veterans, it is tinnitus, not just hearing loss, that profoundly affects their quality of life. The persistent nature of the condition can impact sleep, concentration, and mental health, making daily life more challenging for those affected.
Ear and Hearing Support to Veterans
Our veterans have given so much in service of our country. On ANZAC Day, we not only remember their sacrifices on the battlefield, but we also renew our commitment to supporting them in their lives beyond service.
To support those living with hearing issues, eligible Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) clients can access fully subsidised hearing tests through the Hearing Services Program. If needed, they are also eligible for subsidies toward hearing devices to improve daily functioning and wellbeing.
As the nation pays tribute to its veterans, today’s message is clear: To all who have served, we thank you. We see you. And we are here to support you.
Lest We Forget.
