Each May, Speech Language Hearing Month (SLHM) provides an opportunity to raise awareness about communication disorders and the role of American-Speech-Language Hearing Association members providing life-altering treatment. The theme for 2024 is “Building A Strong Foundation.”
Hearing is the foundation for effective communication, strong relationships,and healthy brain functioning. For many people, communication is difficult because of hearing loss or speech conditions. In fact, more than 48 million people in the U.S. experience some degree of hearing loss, and one in 10 Americans have some type of communication disorder.
Hearing Affects Communication
Hearing loss makes it difficult to not only hear the sounds around you, but to clearly understand speech. When your brain is working hard to fill in the gaps of a conversation due to hearing loss, you may feel exceptionally tired after interacting with people. This can lead to withdrawal, social isolation and depression.
How to Take Care of Your Hearing
Preserving your hearing is a crucial part of taking care of your overall health. Follow these tips to start being proactive about your hearing health:
- Avoid loud noise exposure
- Wear hearing protection when sounds exceed 85 decibels
- Avoid sticking objects in your ears
- Schedule regular hearing exams
Early identification and intervention for hearing loss is important. Many people live with unidentified hearing loss, often failing to realize they are missing certain sounds and words. Long-term studies have shown greater risk of dementia with untreated hearing loss.
Educate Yourself
There is a lot to learn about hearing loss and communication disorders. In order to normalize and decrease the stigma surrounding hearing loss, it’s important to spread awareness.
Audiology Associates of North Jersey is located at 185 Cedar Lane, Suite L2 in Teaneck. Visit https://audiologyassociatesofnj.com/ or call (201) 928-0808 to schedule a hearing exam and start being proactive to improve your hearing, communication and quality of life.
