Yes it does. Far more than people realize until it affects them personally. Nearly 18% of the United States population has some degree of hearing loss, and that number is growing. Learning to cope with some of the negative results is very important to our overall health. Technology plays a big role in providing support, but that doesn't stop with hearing aids. That's where it begins. Assistive technology that goes beyond hearing aids goes much farther, yet many who could benefit don't know what is available. Nor do they know they have rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act for 'communication access'. There's so much to learn. Are you familiar with HLAA? http://www.hearingloss.org