Almost half of people believe that gradual hearing loss is simply ‘part and parcel' of getting old and often cannot be treated, a new survey has found.

It also found that most people are not concerned about the potential damage they could cause to their hearing as a result of listening to music on MP3 players and smart phones too loudly.

The survey of 1,000 people was carried on behalf of Specsavers. According to Specsavers audiologist, Rory Perry, it is ‘alarming' that so many people believe that hearing loss ‘is just something to be accepted as part of growing old'.

"Like all parts of the body our ears are susceptible to the ageing process, however people need to recognise that just like getting glasses for eyesight conditions, deterioration in hearing can also be managed," he explained.

Hearing loss can affect all aspects of life and two in three of those surveyed recognised that untreated hearing loss could lead to depression.

"Emotionally, physically and mentally, untreated hearing loss places stress on individuals that can impact negatively on all areas of daily life. People who suffer from hearing loss often say that they feel isolated from the world going on around them," Mr Perry noted.

The survey found that three in four people listen to music on their MP3 players or smartphones and as expected, this was higher among younger age groups.

Research has shown that listening to any sound at more than 89 decibels for five hours or more each week can damage hearing permanently over time. Young people who listen to loud music via headphones or attend nightclubs, gigs or festivals are particularly at risk.

Despite this, the survey found that almost nine in 10 people are not worried or are neutral about potential hearing loss from listening to music too loudly.

"This is a particularly worrying statistic, because if these people are listening to music at loud levels for long periods of time, they could be doing damage to their hearing that will affect them in later life.

"Music is a great source of enjoyment and we want people to be able to enjoy it for as long as possible. A few simple steps can prevent hearing loss due to noise by taking precautions to protect your hearing and by reducing the time you listen to very loud sounds," Mr Perry explained.

This can include using earplugs at music events, such as concerts and festivals.

Meanwhile, the study also found that almost nine in 10 people would seek advice if they thought there was a problem with their hearing. However when it comes to the possibility of wearing hearing aids, almost two in three said they would be concerned about the cost involved, while one in five said they would be concerned about appearance.

Mr Perry emphasised that hearing aids nowadays are more effective and discreet than in the past. In fact, some are so small, others cannot tell you are wearing one.

"With regards to design, look at a mobile phone or a digital camera and it's easy to see how much technology has moved on in recent years. Hearing aids are no different. Today's models are slimmer, lighter and more discreet than ever before," he said.

The survey was carried out by Amarach Research.