There is a clear local, regional, and national need for audiologists. Employment for audiologists is expected to grow at a faster than average rate through 2031, with 10% growth expected from 2021-2031. This demand for audiologists is expected since hearing loss and balance disorders are associated with aging, and there is a rapid growth in the population of individuals aged 55 and older due to the aging of the “baby boomer” generation. Additionally, the survival rate of infants, trauma and stroke victims continues to improve and these individuals often require the services of an audiologist. U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2022-23 Edition, Audiologists (visited August 1, 2023).
Ohio has a critical need for additional audiologists. Ohio’s elderly population is projected to increase by 33.4% between 2010 and 2023. By 2030, Ohioans aged 60 and older will make up 26.3% of Ohio's total population. Given the prevalence of the rate of hearing impairment in the elderly population (nearly 25% of those aged 65-74 and 50% of those aged 75 and older), significant need exists for additional audiologists. While Universal hearing screenings of all newborns is mandatory in Ohio, there are fewer than 30 licensed audiologists serving the thousands of children with periodic and/or permanent hearing problems in Ohio's primary and secondary schools. More educational audiologists are needed if children with hearing problems are to be identified and served properly.