Gerry Turner captured the hearts of millions in his debut on reality television at the age of 72, proving that love and new beginnings have no age limit. But beyond his journey to find love in his golden years, this reality TV star is also a major advocate for hearing health.
In a conversation with Dave Fabry on the Starkey Sound Bites podcast, Turner opens up about his experience with hearing loss and the decision to wear hearing aids. Read on to learn how Audibel hearing aids help Gerry Turner in his search for love and in his daily life.
Gerry Turner: the Reality of Hearing Loss
In September 2023, Gerry Turner made his TV debut on a popular reality show that follows a cast of older adults looking for love in their golden years.
At age 72, Turner is determined to live his best life at every moment, which is why he was proud to wear hearing aids on the show.
Combating Hearing Aid Stigma
In the first episode, one of the opening shots shows Gerry putting on his hearing aids. This simple act speaks volumes for hearing health advocacy, and he hopes his carefree attitude will help others feel more comfortable addressing their own hearing loss.
“I was happy to make the statement that I will do whatever it takes to find the best quality of life—to live every minute to the max,” Gerry says.
While hearing loss is often overlooked in mainstream media, Gerry Turner’s casual approach sends a clear message: hearing aids are just another tool for living life to the fullest.
Gerry Turner’s Hearing Loss Journey
Age-related hearing loss is incredibly common, yet many people often brush off early signs of the condition as minor inconveniences. However, over time, missing key words and struggling to follow conversations can impact relationships, daily interactions, and overall quality of life.
For Gerry Turner, he first noticed signs of hearing loss when his daughters would tease him for not hearing them. “It was my daughters. They were making fun of me for not hearing…” Though he laughed along, deep down, he knew he wasn’t able to catch every word they said.
Then Gerry found himself struggling to catch dialogue while watching TV, even when the volume was turned up, and he knew it was time to take action.
The Moment of Change
These challenges, along with a deep desire to stay fully connected with his loved ones, finally led Gerry to get his hearing tested. When he tried his new hearing aids for the first time, he was stunned by the difference.
“You’ll be amazed at how much better your life is, being able to hear the subtle things that you’ve missed!” he shares.
From everyday conversations to the sounds that bring joy to a moment, Gerry’s journey proves that treating hearing loss isn’t just about hearing—it’s about truly experiencing life to the fullest.
Gerry Turner’s Favorite Hearing Aid Features
One way Gerry Turner seeks to address the stigma around hearing aids is by getting people excited about the incredible features they have to offer. Audibel hearing aids are packed with advanced technology designed to make life easier and more enjoyable.
“I would shop 5 places for a pair of jeans. Can you imagine how critical I am of hearing aids?” Turner says. “I want the absolute best…and I feel like I’ve gotten that at this point.”
Gerry’s Audibel hearing aids have enhanced his life in ways he never expected. Here are some of his favorite features:
Bluetooth Connectivity
One of Gerry’s favorite features is Bluetooth connectivity, which allows him to stream hands-free calls directly through his hearing aids.
“I really like that I can Bluetooth all my phone calls to my hearing aids,” Gerry explained, “That was a big plus.”
Beyond phone calls, Bluetooth connectivity also allows Gerry to listen to all his favorite TV shows, music, and podcasts, straight through his hearing aids for uninterrupted clarity and convenience.
User-Friendly Controls
For many, the idea of high-tech features can feel overwhelming, but today’s devices are designed for simplicity. So despite featuring some of the most advanced hearing technology available, Gerry says his hearing aids are incredibly easy to use.
“I’m really not a techie,” he admits, “but when it’s that simple, it’s not a problem.”
With user-friendly controls and automatic adjustments, Gerry’s hearing aids seamlessly adapt to different environments, allowing him to stay engaged in conversations and enjoy pure clarity without the hassle.
Discreet Design
Gerry Turner also appreciates how discreet his Audibel hearing aids are. For many people, the fear of bulky, obvious devices can be a barrier to seeking help for hearing loss. But modern technology has changed that, offering sleek, nearly invisible designs that blend seamlessly into everyday life.
“You don’t have to have hearing aids that are really noticeable,” Gerry explains. “Well-fit, good-functioning hearing aids are all but invisible. They’re really not much different than contact lenses.”
The confidence in hearing well without calling attention to his devices is just another reason Gerry is so passionate about encouraging others to take the next step for their hearing health.
The Reality of Age-Related Hearing Loss
Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is a completely natural part of aging. In the U.S., about 1 in 3 people between ages 65 and 74 have hearing loss—while nearly 50% of those over the age of 75 have trouble hearing.1
Despite how common it is, many older adults who could benefit from hearing aids never seek treatment. In fact, less than 30% of those with hearing loss don’t use hearing aids.2
Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding hearing loss often discourages people from getting the care they deserve—but Gerry is determined to change that.
“It’s just a part of aging that we need to accept,” he says. “It’s just a part of what we do as we get older to make life better for ourselves.”
A Message from Gerry Turner to Those with Hearing Loss
If there’s anything Gerry learned during his time on reality television, it’s the power of communication. Meaningful connections are built through conversation, laughter, and shared experiences. However, unaddressed hearing loss can make those moments harder to enjoy.
That’s why Gerry encourages anyone struggling with hearing loss to take action. “Take the next step. Make your life better. I am genuinely a big advocate of this,” he says.
For Gerry, treating his hearing loss has made a world of difference, allowing him to fully engage with the people and experiences that matter most. His advice to others is simple: “Don’t deny yourself the enjoyment of life. Do what you need to do.”
A Hearing Test Can Improve Your Quality of Life
Gerry Turner’s hearing loss journey is the perfect example of how life-changing better hearing can be. With his Audibel hearing aids, Turner was able to connect with contestants on TV and show the world that there’s nothing to be afraid of—just great hearing up ahead.
Ready to follow Gerry’s lead and take the next step toward better hearing health? Find an Audibel clinic near you today to schedule an appointment.
References
- Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis) — Causes and treatment. (2023, March 17). NIDCD. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/age-related-hearing-loss
- Quick statistics about hearing, balance, & dizziness. (2024, September 20). NIDCD. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/quick-statistics-hearing
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