From participating in everyday conversations to listening to our favorite tunes, hearing well helps connect us to the sounds that shape our lives. Yet, over 1.5 billion people worldwide experience some degree of hearing loss, and many remain untreated. Hearing challenges can affect their mental, physical and emotional health.
People with hearing loss:
- Have three times the risk of falling
- May be up to five times more likely to develop dementia
- Are at a greater risk of experiencing depression and social anxiety
- Can struggle to communicate and become socially isolated
World Hearing Day, observed annually on March 3, is a global initiative by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about hearing loss and promote hearing care.
This day serves as a reminder to everyone to prioritize their hearing health sooner rather than later. It’s particularly important because the average person waits 10 years before seeking help for hearing loss, which can take a toll on their quality of life.
The longer someone puts off getting treatment, the more likely they are to face negative consequences for their well-being.
Don’t Let Hearing Loss Limit Your Life
In honor of World Hearing Day, schedule a hearing checkup today, and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Another thing you can do to support your hearing health? Follow these easy, ear-friendly tips!
- Protect your ears: Use earplugs in loud environments.
- Keep volume safe: Follow the 60/60 rule—listen at 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
- Avoid cotton swabs: They can damage the ear canal and eardrum.
- Treat infections promptly: Seek medical care for ear pain or discharge.
- Get regular hearing checks: They’re especially critical if you’re over 50 or work in noisy settings.
Hearing loss is not always inevitable—it’s often preventable and treatable. If you or someone you love is looking for a more connected, vibrant life, call Beneficial Hearing Aid Center (352) 629-4418 to schedule a hearing health checkup.