Better Hearing Month: Protect and Prioritize Your Hearing Health

May is Better Hearing Month, a time to raise awareness about hearing health, early intervention, and the benefits of hearing care.

Hearing loss is a growing global issue, affecting people of all ages. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1.5 billion people worldwide live with hearing loss, and this number could rise to 2.5 billion by 2050.

At Hearing Solutions, we are committed to helping you protect your hearing, prevent hearing loss, and find personalized solutions to improve your quality of life.

Understanding Hearing Loss

When people think of hearing loss, they often imagine complete deafness — but the reality is far more complex. Hearing loss can range from mild to profound, affect one or both ears, and stem from multiple causes including:

• Age-related changes
• Exposure to loud noise
• Illnesses or infections
• Genetics
• Medication side effects

Left untreated, hearing loss can impact communication, education, career growth, mental health, and relationships.

The Impact of Hearing Loss Across Different Life Stages

Hearing Loss in Older Adults

Age-related hearing loss (also known as presbycusis) is common among seniors. It typically affects both ears and gradually worsens over time, beginning with the loss of high-pitched sounds.

The consequences of untreated hearing loss in seniors include:

• Safety risks (falls and balance issues)
• Social isolation and loneliness
• Increased risk of dementia (Johns Hopkins Medicine)
• Hearing complications linked to chronic diseases like diabetes (CDC)

| Did you know? People with diabetes are twice as likely to experience hearing loss compared to those without.

Hearing Loss in Adults (20s–60s)

Younger and middle-aged adults often underestimate their hearing health. However, research shows that 1 in 5 teenagers and many young adults already have signs of noise-induced hearing loss (NBC News).

Risk factors for adults include:

• Loud music exposure (concerts, headphones)
• Occupational noise (construction, manufacturing)
• Lack of regular hearing checkups

Prevention is key: wearing hearing protection and scheduling regular hearing tests can safeguard hearing for the future.

Hearing Loss in Children

Hearing loss can have a significant impact on a child’s development, affecting speech, learning, and social interaction. Programs like Ontario’s Infant Hearing Program ensure early detection and intervention.

Signs of hearing loss in children include:

• Delayed speech development
• Frequent ear infections
• Difficulty following directions
• Poor academic performance

Early diagnosis and intervention can change a child’s life trajectory, leading to better communication skills and social development.

Common Causes of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can happen suddenly or progressively, and common causes include:

• Noise Exposure: Loud environments can damage the inner ear over time.
• Genetics: Family history plays a significant role.
• Health Conditions: Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and infections.
• Medications: Certain drugs can be ototoxic (harmful to hearing).
• Tinnitus: a ringing or buzzing in the ears, can also be a warning sign of underlying hearing issues.

Why Regular Hearing Tests Matter

Many people wait 7 to 10 years before seeking help for hearing loss — but early intervention can make a huge difference.

Benefits of early detection include:

• Maintaining strong communication skills
• Preventing cognitive decline
• Enhancing relationships and career success
• Improving mental health and reducing isolation

If you notice any signs of hearing loss such as turning up the TV volume, difficulty following conversations, or ringing in the ears, it’s time for a hearing evaluation.

At Hearing Solutions, we offer comprehensive hearing assessments to help you understand your hearing health and next steps.

Hearing Solutions: Your Partner in Better Hearing

We are proud to support Better Hearing Month by providing:

• Comprehensive hearing assessments
• Personalized hearing aid fittings
• Custom ear protection for noise prevention
• Ongoing hearing aid care and support
• Assistive listening devices for phones, TVs, and more

We offer the latest hearing aid technology, from rechargeable models to Bluetooth-connected devices tailored to your lifestyle and budget.

Take the First Step Toward Better Hearing Health

Hearing health is essential to living life fully. This May, celebrate Better Hearing Month by taking action. Protect your hearing, prioritize hearing care, and prevent hearing loss whenever possible.

Book your hearing test today. Your future self will thank you!