Decibels (dB) are used to assess hearing loss, and the degree of hearing loss is based on the weakest sound a person can hear
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Level Hearing Loss Range (dB)
What it is Not too bad 26–40 dB
Having trouble hearing quiet speech or speaking in loud places
Not too much 41–55 dB
May need hearing aids to understand what people are saying
Not too bad 56 to 70 dB
Having trouble understanding even loud speaking
Very bad 71–90 dB
Heavily depends on lip-reading or sign language
Deep 90 dB
May only be able to hear vibrations or very loud sounds
Hearing loss, also called hearing impairment, is when you do not hear well in one ear (unilateral) or both ears (bilateral). It is not only a lack of sensory input; it is a complex problem that affects communication, cognitive development, emotional health, and social integration. Depending on the cause, location, and severity, hearing loss can be temporary or permanent, mild or severe.
