Bethel, CT – Duracell, the brand millions trust for power, is shining a spotlight on the issue of hearing impairment. With the launch of its new initiative and film, “Stay Connected,” Duracell wants to ensure that people who suffer from hearing loss stay connected with their loved ones and not miss out on key moments in life.
Hearing impairment is a national health issue. According to the Center for Hearing and Communication, it affects 48 million Americans and 80 percent of those affected by hearing loss over the age of 65 do not seek treatment. For those who do, Duracell powers them to experience every moment and stay connected by offering long-lasting hearing aid batteries. As part of its “Stay Connected” campaign, Duracell also looks to reach the vast majority of Americans currently not receiving treatment because untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation and depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Hearing loss also has far-reaching effects, touching not only those who can’t hear, but the loved ones who feel their family member is slowly disconnecting from them, and life, and missing out on key moments. To help people take the first step towards staying connected, Duracell will offer 50,000 free hearing screenings throughout the month of May, National Better Hearing Month.
“Duracell powers millions of people, every day with long-lasting hearing aid batteries,” says Jeff Jarrett, SVP of Marketing at Duracell. “We play a critical role in helping people with hearing loss stay connected to their loved ones, and for those many millions who have not been treated, we’re offering a way for them to take that first step towards being connected and making sure they don’t miss out on key moments in life.”
Duracell’s “Stay Connected” film tells the story of a father who slowly starts to slip into isolation. During important moments like family dinners, he becomes disengaged due to his hearing impairment. Following a concerning event with his baby granddaughter and with encouragement from his family, he takes the first step in addressing his hearing health with a visit to an audiologist. There, he is fit for a hearing aid, and that device, powered by Duracell, immediately connects him back to the world. Award-winning actor and director, John Slattery (“Spotlight,” “Mad Men”), who lends his voice to the film’s voiceover, is partnering with Duracell as he has personally experienced the issue: his father suffered from untreated hearing loss before being tested and receiving hearing aids.
“I’m thrilled to be supporting Duracell for their ‘Stay Connected’ initiative. This powerful film shines a light on what millions of families have experienced with hearing loss,” says John Slattery. “My own father has been wearing a hearing aid for the past five years and is so much more engaged with life. I hope that this film encourages all Americans to take a closer look at this issue within their own family, and help older Americans take the first step with their free screening.”
“We didn’t want the hearing test itself to be the obstacle for anyone currently suffering and not being treated,” says Jarrett. “We made it as simple as possible and are proud to be providing 50,000 free tests throughout the month.” The tests are administered through the National Hearing Test, a quick and convenient over-the-phone hearing screening developed with funding from the National Institutes of Health. It is the only screening test that is scientifically validated, not-for-profit and its results remain private to the user. The test helps determine if a more full-scale assessment by an audiologist is needed. People can call 1-844-9-Duracell to take the free hearing test or visit Duracell.com/StayConnected to view the film and learn more about the “Stay Connected” initiative.
“Hearing loss is the second most prevalent health issue globally. The number of people with hearing loss is more than those living with Parkinson’s, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s and diabetes combined,” says Dr. Laurie Hanin, Executive Director, Center for Hearing Loss and Communications. “Beyond the feeling of isolation which can lead to depression, research has found that people with mild hearing loss were more likely to develop dementia and nearly three times more likely to have a debilitating fall. These are some of the reasons why it is so important for people to take the initial step of getting their hearing tested.”
About Duracell
Started in the 1920’s, the Duracell brand and company was recently acquired by Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE-BRK.A, BRK.B) and has grown to be the leader in the single-use battery market in North America. The iconic Duracell brand is known the world over. Our products serve as the heart of devices that keep people connected, protect their families, entertain them, and simplify their increasingly mobile lifestyles. Our recharging technology allows consumers to live life without limits. Berkshire Hathaway Inc. is a $210B holding company owning subsidiaries that engage in diverse business activities. Visit www.duracell.com for more information; follow us on Twitter.com/Duracell and like us on Facebook.com/Duracell.
