Not mocked for hearing aid use
The recent EuroTrak UK 2025 survey, highlighting both progress and challenges in hearing health across the UK. The survey, published by British Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association (BIHIMA), shows rising satisfaction and quality of life among hearing aid users, with 82% satisfied and 96% reporting improved quality of life. Average daily wear time has increased to nine hours, and 70% of users now say they never feel mocked for wearing their devices, up from 64% in 2022 which signals a decline in stigma. Technological advancements, such as AI integration, real-time sound processing, and the prevalence of apps connected to devices, are credited for boosting user experience and personalization. Despite these positives, adoption rates have dipped slightly to 50.5%, down from 52.8% in 2022, keeping the UK third globally behind Denmark and France. BIHIMA attributes this to persistent misconceptions, denial, or lack of awareness about hearing loss. App usage is growing, with 31% of users adopting companion apps, though audiologists are urged to better educate patients to maximize benefits. The recommendations emphasize the need for stronger public awareness efforts to encourage early adoption and leverage the life-changing potential of modern hearing technology.
Source: AT Today
Paris crowned the most accessible destination
While some destinations remain challenging for travelers with mobility issues, a recent analysis by specialist travel insurance provider Good to Go highlights the most accessible European cities. Examining 20 of the most visited cities in Europe, Good to go ranked them based on accessibility factors such as public transportation, healthcare availability, and the number of accessible restaurants and attractions.
The findings revealed travel darling Paris as the most accessible destination, the city scored highly in nearly every category. Lisbon surprisingly secured second place, praised for its transportation options, accessible cultural sites, and healthcare, despite its hilly terrain. Milan, Florence, and Venice also ranked in the top five, with Florence earning the highest marks for accessible restaurants and attractions but lower scores for transportation availability. Other cities in the top 10 include Athens, Amsterdam, Prague, Munich, and Berlin. According to Good to Go, the growing accessibility of world-class destinations means travelers living with disabilities can more easily explore many iconic cities more comfortably and confidently, making global adventures more inclusive than ever.
Source: Travel & Leisure
Practicing law with an invisible disability
Brian Studniberg, now a partner at Henein Hutchison Robitaille LLP, had spent much of his life unaware that he had a severe auditory processing disorder—a brain-based condition that makes it difficult to differentiate sounds in noisy environments. Social settings like parties or bustling restaurants were overwhelming, and left him struggling to follow conversations despite having perfect hearing in quiet settings.
Academically gifted, Studniberg excelled through university, earning multiple degrees, including a JD/MBA from the University of Toronto, where he graduated near the top of his class. Despite his credentials, early legal roles were challenging, though he thrived in smaller, collaborative teams. In 2018, after extensive testing in Boston, he finally received a diagnosis.
Returning to Toronto in 2019, he joined litigation boutique Henein Hutchison Robitaille, where his meticulous analysis and sharp memory quickly made him invaluable. In 2021, he openly shared his diagnosis, fostering greater understanding and accommodations within the firm. Colleagues view his hyperfocus and attention to detail as a valuable part of their brain trust, reinforcing his belief that his challenges and talents are interconnected. Today, Brain’s uber focus is seen as a super power.
Source: Law & Style
Images: Nick Wong. Shutterstock.
