The new year is an exciting time. Many of us seize this time as a fresh start and an opportunity to set intentions. It is common to make health centered goals and commit to wellness. A great way you can do this is by committing to your hearing health which is integral to quality of life. Prioritizing your hearing health is as simple as scheduling an appointment for a hearing test in the new year!
- Schedule a hearing test. Getting your hearing health comprehensively evaluated regularly is an important way to monitor your hearing health. Even if you do not suspect hearing loss and think your hearing is fine, regular screenings are a way to track your hearing. A hearing detects even the slightest changes to your hearing health which allows you to intervene to address them. Hearing tests involve a painless and noninvasive process that measures hearing capacities in both ears. This identifies any hearing loss and the degree of impairment in each ear. Once your hearing needs are established, your hearing healthcare provider is able to tailor treatment to meet your needs.
- Maximize hearing aid use. Hearing aids are the most common treatment for hearing loss. If you already have hearing aids, have them professionally serviced in the new year. This allows them to receive a thorough cleaning and inspection from a specialist. They can also ensure that your hearing aids are working optimally and meeting your hearing needs. Professional servicing also contributes to the longevity of hearing aids.
If you are new to hearing aids, be sure to discuss the range of technologies and features
that are available with your hearing healthcare provider. Technologies like digital noise
reduction, voice recognition, tinnitus management, and wireless connectivity expand
what hearing aids are able to do. These features deliver enhanced sound quality,
increased connectivity, and make hearing as seamless as possible in everyday
environments.
- Make dietary changes. Healthy ways of eating offer numerous benefits including supporting hearing health. A major study conducted by researchers at Harvard Medical School found that healthy diets positively impacted hearing health. They found that people with healthy dietary patterns were 30% less likely to experience hearing loss. Eating diets rich with vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, and fish is a great way to integrate more nutrients that boost hearing health. This includes magnesium, folate, potassium, and vitamin C and D.
- Increase physical activity. Exercise supports blood flow throughout the body including the ears. This supports all the components involved in the auditory system – the sensory system for hearing. You can increase physical activity by taking a daily walk, stretching, or discovering a physical activity you enjoy (biking, water aerobics, golfing, swimming etc.)
- Explore hearing technologies. In addition to hearing aids, there are several types of hearing technologies that your hearing health can benefit from. It is useful to discuss the range of technologies available to you with your hearing healthcare provider. This includes assistive listening devices and hearing aid accessories which support hearing health even more.
- Quit smoking. Numerous studies show that smoking is a factor that can increase the risk of developing hearing loss. Research shows that smokers can be significantly more likely to experience hearing loss. Experts suggest that nicotine is an active ingredient that can damage blood vessels and restrict blood flow. This includes blood flow and vessels in the ears which are part of how sound is absorbed and processed. An effective way you can protect your hearing health is by eliminating smoking in the new year.
- Reduce loud noise exposure. Loud noise is a common cause of hearing loss. One time or consistent exposure to loud noise can cause noise induced hearing loss. You can reduce your exposure to excessive noise in many ways including: wearing hearing protection (headphones, earplugs, earmuffs etc.), maintaining low volume settings on electronic devices (TV, phone, speaker), avoiding places with lots of background noise, taking listening breaks throughout the day, taking alternate routes to avoid construction sites etc.
The new year is a great time to practice these safety measures. These strategies can significantly protect your hearing health and wellness. To get started, call us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing test. We look forward to supporting you and prioritizing your hearing health in the new year!