Though hearing loss impacts 1 in 5 people, hearing health is often an under-recognized component of overall health and wellness. Additionally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 1 billion people globally are at high risk of developing hearing loss. Hearing loss is a medical condition that can reduce one’s capacity to hear and process speech as well as sound. This strains hearing and communication which can have multifaceted effects on everyday life – impacting relationships, social life, work performance, and overall health. This highlights the importance of practicing healthy habits that can protect your hearing health. Integrating the following measures can significantly support your hearing health and wellness:
- Wear hearing protection: according to the Hearing Health Foundation, over 30 million people are regularly exposed to loud noise. Additionally, 22 million people are specifically exposed to hazardous noise levels in the workplace. One time or regular exposure to loud noise can cause noise induced hearing loss which is permanent. Fortunately, this type of hearing loss is totally preventable. An effective prevention strategy is wearing hearing protection. This includes items like headphones, earbuds, and earplugs which offer the ears a physical barrier; reducing the amount of loud noise you absorb.
A great tip is to carrying hearing protection with you so that you can easily access and wear it when moving through environments that are noisy – while commuting, at concerts, on airplanes etc. If you work in a place with excessive noise, be sure to ask your employer about workplace accommodations like hearing protection. You may also want to look into custom hearing protection options which provide maximum protection.
- Take listening breaks: your auditory system – the ears and brain – are constantly working throughout the day to absorb and process sound. Taking 5 to 10 minute listening breaks throughout the day where you are not exposed to much noise is a great way to give your auditory system a break. This gives the ears and brain time to rest and recuperate.
- Reduce exposure to loud noise: in addition to wearing hearing protection and taking listening breaks, there are more ways you can reduce your exposure to loud noise. A few tips include: avoiding noisy settings like restaurants during peak hours, taking alternate routes to avoid traffic and construction sites, driving with the window rolled up, maintaining low volume settings on your electronic devices, wearing hearing protection while using power tools and other noisy appliances etc.
- Maximize use of hearing aids: if you have hearing loss, it is important to wear and maximize use of your hearing aids. You should wear your hearing aid during waking hours, there are also ways you can get more from them. Today’s hearing aids are more advanced than ever before, offering a range of technologies and features that deliver crisp sound and make hearing seamless. This includes digital noise reduction, wireless connectivity, voice recognition, tinnitus management and more. These features support hearing in all environments, supporting communication and safety. Be sure to discuss these options with your hearing healthcare provider who can help you identify the features that are optimal for your hearing and lifestyle needs.
- Increase physical activity: exercise offers numerous benefits like boosting energy, helps to process stress effectively, and reduces a number of health risks. These benefits also support hearing health by promoting healthy blood flow and contributing to preventing health risks that can be linked with hearing loss. There are simple ways you can increase your physical activity, a few ideas include: taking a daily walk, stretching, finding a physical hobby you enjoy: golfing, water aerobics, yoga etc.
- Test hearing regularly: another great way to protect your hearing health is to get your hearing tested regularly. Hearing tests involve a painless and non-invasive process that evaluates your hearing capacities in both ears. This identifies any hearing loss and the degree of impairment in each ear. If you don’t have hearing loss, getting your hearing tested establishes the baseline of your hearing health. This makes it easier to track and identify any changes you may experience over time.
Practicing these strategies can support your hearing health tremendously. Contact us today to learn more about the resources and technologies that are available to protect your hearing health.