Hearing is easily taken for granted. Many people do not experience hearing loss as children or young adults, which perhaps creates a false sense of security that hearing will always be there. But studies have found that billions of people’s hearing is under threat, and that threat could present itself a lot earlier than they realize.
According to the World Health Organization, 1.1 billion people under the age of 35 are at risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). And many are already confronting issues with their hearing, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one in five teens in the United States already has measurable hearing loss.
The Hearing Health Foundation notes that once hearing is lost it cannot be recovered, which is why the organization is working diligently to change how people think about their hearing. Preventing hearing loss is part of the organization’s mission, and it offers the following recommendations to individuals seeking to protect their long-term hearing.
· Move away from noise if possible The term “noise” is unique because it can be hard to measure and is often seen as relative. Moving away from particularly noisy situations can prevent hearing loss, but how is one to know if a situation qualifies as noisy? The HHF notes there are apps, including the NIOSH SLM app, that measure noise levels and predict allowable exposure times. These features can indicate when a setting is too noisy and/or how long a person can be in a situation before his or her hearing may be adversely affected.
· Lower the volume It’s simple, but effective. Lowering the volume on a car radio, television or personal device can protect long-term hearing. It’s also beneficial to heed noise warnings on devices such as over-ear headphones. Such warnings may involve a beep and/or smartphone notification indicating that an attempt to raise the volume on headphones is exceeding the recommended maximum decibel levels. Some users may disregard those warnings, but those who want to protect their long-term hearing should make use of this often built-in feature and heed its warnings.
· Utilize noise-canceling devices Noise-canceling capabilities on over-ear headphones are perhaps more helpful than users realize. By blocking out all external sounds, noise-canceling headphones reduce the likelihood that users will increase the volume when listening to music, watching a show or movie or talking on a phone. Keeping volume low is a great way to protect long-term hearing.
· Schedule routine hearing exams Hearing exams should be part of everyone’s preventive health care routine. The HHF notes that regular hearing tests can help to uncover early hearing loss. When individuals learn they have hearing loss, they’re more inclined to take steps to prevent further deterioration.
People of all ages are urged to take their hearing seriously and embrace measures to maintain hearing over the long haul. Alber Hearing Services in Greenfield MA can put their expertise to work for you!