Announces First Phase of Social Media Presence to Engage with U.S. Hearing Aid Community.
Piscataway, NJ, May 16, 2012 - Siemens Hearing Instruments, Inc. today announced the launch of its official U.S. Facebook page to bring greater understanding about the impact of hearing loss and the latest developments the hearing care industry is delivering to improve the lives of those living with hearing loss. Siemens' entrance into the social media world coincides with Better Hearing and Speech Month, which every year raises awareness about communication disorders and promotes treatment to help overcome hearing, understanding, or speaking challenges.
"Even a very slight hearing loss can adversely affect a person's daily life - both their social connections and personal health," said Scott Davis, CEO, Siemens Hearing Instruments, Inc. "As we celebrate Better Hearing and Speech Month, Siemens' new Facebook page brings hearing loss to the forefront by drawing attention to how it impacts peoples' social interaction and emotional well-being - not to mention its association with other health conditions."
Recent studies point to the prevalence of hearing loss across America and the influence hearing loss has on a person's overall health. A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine indicates nearly one in five Americans struggles with significant hearing loss - that's 48 million people. Unaddressed hearing loss can lead to social isolation, increased anger and depression. A current study from the U.S. National Institute on Aging also linked hearing loss to greater risks of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Other chronic diseases associated with hearing loss include diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease. With the first of 78 million baby boomers turning 66 this year, there may be more Americans facing these life-altering, serious health risks than ever before.
The new Facebook page provides information on hearing loss, and updates on Siemens' product innovations and marketing promotions for both hearing care professionals and consumers in the U.S. It's a way to engage in conversations with all members of the hearing care community - including professionals, new and experienced hearing aid wearers, people seeking help and their families. Building a community with social media makes it easier for hearing care professionals and hearing aid wearers to share their challenges and success stories.
"To really understand what our customers and consumers are experiencing, we need to connect with them on as many levels as possible," said Davis. "With the launch of our Facebook page, everyone can share their experiences, participate in the conversation, and learn more about Siemens' award-winning products and services."
To join the conversation with Siemens Hearing Instruments, visit www.facebook.com/SiemensHearingInstrumentsUSA and Like Siemens Hearing Instruments USA's Facebook page.
Siemens' push into social media further supports Agenda 2013, a global initiative to further strengthen the innovative power and competitiveness of the Siemens Healthcare Sector. Launched in November 2011, Agenda 2013 entails specific measures to be implemented in four fields of action: Innovation, Competitiveness, Regional Footprint and People Development.
About Siemens Healthcare
The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry and a trendsetter in medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, medical information technology and hearing aids. Siemens offers its customers products and solutions for the entire range of patient care from a single source - from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, and on to treatment and aftercare. By optimizing clinical workflows for the most common diseases, Siemens also makes healthcare faster, better and more cost-effective. Siemens Healthcare employs some 51,000 employees worldwide and operates around the world. In fiscal year 2011 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 12.5 billion euros and profit of around 1.3 billion euros. For further information please visit: www.siemens.com/healthcare or the Siemens Web Channel on AudiologyOnline.
