Category: Hearing Well-Being

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Balance Dizzyness Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being Hearing Well-Being

Do Balance Exercises really help?

Tai Chi Balance practice
Photo by Monica Leonardi on Unsplash

Finding Your Feet

When you live with hearing loss, you might not expect difficulties with your balance. Yet, balance issues are surprisingly common for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. This is because the inner ear isn’t just responsible for hearing; it’s also home to the vestibular system, which helps us stay upright and steady on our feet. When your balance is affected, even slightly, it can lead to dizziness, unsteadiness, or a general lack of confidence when walking.

One of our ambassadors recently shared a brilliant insight about the balance exercise class that they attend:

“I’ve been taking balance exercise classes for HOH/deaf via Zoom, once a week, for five years now. Everyone in the class has hearing loss, so our classes are always captioned. Slowly, slowly I feel my balance and confidence have improved. I feel far more stable.”

So, in this article we ask whether balance exercises really work and can they help improve stability, mobility, and confidence.

Why Balance Exercises Matter

Tai Chi Balance practice
Photo by Monica Leonardi on Unsplash

Our ability to balance depends on input from our eyes, muscles, joints, and inner ears. If hearing loss is related to damage in the inner ear and vestibular system, the brain may be less able to interpret motion and body position, leading to a greater risk of falls.

This is especially important as we age: falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults. Studies show that targeted balance exercises can reduce the risk of falls, improve posture, and strengthen muscles, which also helps maintain independence.

What Do Balance Exercises Involve?

Balance exercises can range from very gentle movements to more challenging routines. Common exercises include:

  • Standing on one leg (near a wall or chair for support)

  • Heel-to-toe walking

  • Tai Chi or gentle yoga

  • Side leg raises

  • Marching in place

  • Sit-to-stand repetitions

  • Turning your head slowly side to side while walking

These exercises help train your body to respond better to shifts in movement and weight, and they can be modified for any age or ability.

Balance - standing on one leg
Photo by Age Cymru on Unsplash

Can Balance Exercises Help People with Hearing Loss?

Yes—and there’s growing awareness of this. More and more classes, like the one our contributor mentioned, are being tailored specifically for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. These classes are often captioned, use visual cues, and allow extra time for instructions, which makes them more accessible and inclusive.

Even if your balance isn’t severely affected, regular practice can:

  • Improve your confidence when walking outdoors or on uneven surfaces.

  • Increase your muscle strength, which supports balance.

  • Help you feel more grounded and aware of your body’s movements.

How to Find a Class

Photo by Marten Newhall on Unsplash

  • Local community centres or health charities often run classes for older adults or people with sensory loss.

  • Online platforms like Zoom are now offering accessible classes specifically for the HOH/deaf community.

  • Search for terms like “deaf-friendly balance class,” “accessible fitness,” or “vestibular rehab for hearing loss.”

  • Check with hearing support organisations or balance/dizziness charities—they may offer referrals or run their own classes.

  • Speak to a physiotherapist—they can create a tailored programme based on your needs.

A Final Word

Like our Facebook friend said:

“I can’t scientifically prove balance exercise is helpful, but it sure doesn’t hurt! And after a while, it’s fun.”

That’s exactly the point. If it feels good, improves your confidence, and gets you moving, then it’s already working!

So if your world has felt a little off-balance lately, why not give it a go? Whether you choose a group class or practice from the comfort of your living room, a few simple moves might help you feel more sure-footed and more empowered.

Find out more about Hearing Loss and Balance on our website here [Hearing Loss and Balance]

Where to Look for a Class

If you are interested in exploring balance classes—especially those suitable for people with hearing loss—here are some good places to start:

Online Classes (Zoom & On-Demand)

  • YouTube Channels
    Try searching “balance exercises for seniors” or “vestibular rehab exercises.” Some videos are captioned or include visual-only instructions. Look for creators like NHS Balance Exercises, Later Life Training, or The Otago Exercise Programme.

Other Resources:

  • Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) [https://rnid.org.uk]
    RNID doesn’t run classes directly but can help you find support groups or local organisations that do. They may also know of HOH-friendly fitness options.

  • Hearing Loss Association of America [https://www.hearingloss.org]
    HLAA offers programs, events and a nationwide community of support that give people the tools to thrive with hearing loss.

  • Age UK [https://www.ageuk.org.uk]
    Many local Age UK branches offer gentle exercise classes, including falls prevention and balance workshops. Call your local branch and ask about accessible classes.

  • Falls Prevention Services (via your GP or local NHS Trust)
    If you’re experiencing balance issues, your GP can refer you to a falls prevention programme or a vestibular physiotherapist. Some services run group sessions specifically for people with sensory impairments.

  • Your Local Deaf Centre or Hearing Loss Charity
    These centres often host community events and may offer or know of tailored movement sessions. Try searching “[Your County] Deaf Centre”

Categories
Communication Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being Hearing Well-Being Sign Language

The hearing loss virus that changed our lives

Everything changed 10 years ago
Photo by Alex Sheldon on Unsplash

One ordinary day, a virus changed everything.

About twelve years ago, my husband lost most of his hearing due to a viral infection. Just like that, he went from fully hearing to severely deaf—and our lives were turned upside down.  At first, we didn’t fully grasp the impact it would have. But little by little, the effects of hearing loss crept into every corner of our lives. He struggled to understand speech. Conversations became exhausting. Group gatherings were overwhelming. Telephone calls were impossible. Even simple tasks like chatting to someone at the supermarket checkout became a source of stress.

Hearing Loss causes people to become isolated
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

We both found it hard. He was frustrated that I didn’t seem to speak clearly. I couldn’t understand why he wasn’t responding. The miscommunications built up. Over time, my husband began to withdraw. He’d sit quietly with a book rather than try to join in a conversation. I think he found it more comforting to be alone than to face the embarrassment of asking people to repeat themselves again and again.

Evenings out with friends stopped altogether. The wall of background noise in restaurants made conversation unbearable. He no longer felt like himself. And I no longer felt like I could reach him.

We knew something had to change—but what?

The First Turning Point: Finding Support

Just when things were starting to feel hopeless, we discovered our first glimmer of hope: a LinkUp Support Group run by Hearing Link Services.

It was life-changing.

For the first time, we met others who understood exactly what we were going through. We realised that hearing loss doesn’t just affect one person—it affects everyone close to them. And more importantly, it’s not just about the ears. It’s about communication, relationships, confidence, and connection.

You are not alone
Photo by Dan Meyers on Unsplash

We began to make small changes at home. I’d turn off the radio when we were talking. I’d face him when I spoke. I’d double-check he’d caught anything important. These things are second nature to us now—and yes, we’ve laughed at some of the hilarious things he thought I’d said!

If you’re struggling like we were, please know: you’re not alone, and there is help out there.

The Second Turning Point: Learning to Sign

A few years later came our second big breakthrough. We discovered that our local Adult Education Centre was running a Lipreading and Signed Communication course.

We didn’t know much about lipreading, and to be honest, we weren’t sure sign language would be relevant. Wasn’t it just for people born deaf? But we were curious, and we decided to give it a go.

We’re so glad we did.

The class was aimed at people like us—those who had lost their hearing after childhood. The method used was a combination of Lip Reading and Sign Supported English (SSE), which uses British Sign Language (BSL) signs alongside spoken English word order. It felt strange at first, like stepping into a whole new world. But slowly, it began to click.

And with it, something else clicked too: communication came back.

Communication with hearing loss
Photo by Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash

Rebuilding Confidence and Connection

Bit by bit, my husband’s confidence returned. His mood lifted. And most importantly, he felt included again.

When we go out in a group now, I can sign key parts of the conversation to him, making social situations far less isolating. Even better, our friends have become curious. They ask questions. They try out signs. They engage with him in ways they never did before.

It’s been transformational – for both of us.

Sign language hasn’t just helped us communicate. It’s helped us reconnect. It’s opened a door to inclusion, not just in our relationship, but in the wider world around us.

Connection after hearing loss
Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash

Give Sign Language a Go!

If you or someone you love is navigating hearing loss, why not give sign language a try?

It’s not just about words—it’s about connection, confidence, and a better quality of life.

That’s what our charity, Hearing Ambassadors is all about too.

Click here to see other posts about  Sign Languages , how to get started, and the many ways it can make a difference.

 

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Accessible Communication Communication Hearing Loss Hearing Well-Being workplace

Why is good lighting good for hearing?

Good Lighting
Photo by Natasha Hall on Unsplash

When we think about hearing, we often focus on our ears—but did you know that good lighting is good for hearing too.

Hearing is not just about sound; it’s also about visual cues, body language, and lip reading. Good lighting can make a significant difference in helping people with hearing difficulties engage more effectively in conversations and social interactions.

Why is good lighting good for hearing
AdobeStock_659950890.jpeg

1. The Role of Good Lighting and Visual Cues in Hearing

Communication is a combination of listening and visual processing. Facial expressions, lip movements, and gestures all provide essential context to what is being said. In dim or poor lighting, these cues become harder to read, making conversations more challenging for people with hearing loss. Good lighting ensures that these visual signals are clear and accessible.

Vusual Clues
Photo by Anton Malanin on Unsplash

2. Lip Reading and Facial Expressions

Many individuals with hearing loss rely on lip reading to supplement their understanding of speech. Without adequate lighting, reading lips and picking up on subtle facial expressions becomes nearly impossible. Shadows, backlighting, or flickering lights can obscure details, leading to misunderstandings and frustration.

Good lighting - face in dark
Photo by Malik Earnest on Unsplash

3. Avoiding Eye Strain and Fatigue

Straining to see in poor lighting can be exhausting.  We all have to work harder to interpret visual cues in bad lighting, but for people with hearing poor lighting, increases cognitive load and fatigue, making communication even more tiring. A well-lit environment reduces this strain, making conversations smoother and less draining.

4. Enhancing Group Conversations

Background noise can be a significant barrier for those with hearing loss. In social settings, where multiple conversations happen simultaneously, a well-lit environment helps us identify who is talking, making it easier to follow group discussions, and enabling us to focus on the person speaking.

Good lighting in a restaurant
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

5. Choosing the Right Lighting for Better Communication

To create a hearing-friendly environment, consider the following lighting tips:

  • Avoid strong backlighting (such as sitting in front of a bright window) as it can create shadows on the face.
  • Use soft, even lighting to minimize glare and harsh contrasts.
  • Ensure faces are well-lit to make lip reading and facial expressions easy to see.
  • Consider adjustable lighting to adapt to different situations and needs.

6. My eyes are my ears

Lighting isn’t just about seeing better—it’s about hearing better, too. or as one of our followers put it so well, “my eyes are my ears” By ensuring our environments are well-lit, we can support clearer communication, reduce fatigue, and help people with hearing loss stay engaged in conversations. Small changes in lighting can make a big difference in making the world more accessible for everyone.

Are your spaces hearing-friendly?

Take a moment to check your lighting, and you might be surprised at the impact it has on communication!

If you would like to know more about hearing accessibility, take a look at our post Seven Simple Steps to Create Hearing Friendly Spaces

This post has been inspired by our Facebook follower, David.

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Communication Hearing Well-Being workplace

Seven Simple Tips to create Hearing-Friendly Spaces

Photo by Maciej Pienczewski on Unsplash

Seven simple tips; One BIG impact

Imagine struggling to understand what someone says, not because they’re far away but because background noise, poor lighting, or overlapping voices make communication difficult. Whether it’s your workplace, a community space, or an online meeting, here are seven simple tips that won’t break the budget but will make a world of difference to your meeting space and help to foster full participation.

Tip 1 – Background Noise

If you are in a big meeting or just chatting with a friend, turn off background noise such as music, the radio, the TV or even the tap when having a conversation.  This might seem obvious, but it’s surprising how many people forget that background noise has an enormous impact on how well we hear.  That’s why we have made it our number one tip.

Seven simple tips - background noise
Photo by Alexander Shatov on Unsplash
Tip 2 – Lighting

Have you noticed that often people subconsciously put their glasses whilst listening intently to what you have to say.  Why?  Because they want to see your face clearly so they can pick up on your expressions and read the sounds that you make through your lips.

Seven simple tips - lighting
Photo by Etienne Girardet on Unsplash

Our second tip is that because everybody lipreads, good lighting makes for good listening.  Look out for our next post which will be dedicated to lighting!

This goes for online meetings too. Always check that your camera is positioned so everyone can see your face clearly, and add a desk lamp for that extra illumination.

Seven simple tips - online meetings
Photo by Compare Fibre on Unsplash
Tip 3 – get their attention before speaking

Often the most important part of a sentence is right at the beginning where you put everything into context so get their attention before speaking.  How?  Say their name or gently tap their arm.

Tip 4 – Talk one at a time

Nobody likes meetings where everyone talks over one another this is because it’s hard to know which conversation to listen to. In order to get the best from your meeting, encourage participants to talk one at a time.  An added unexpected benefit is that if you follow this tip, your meetings will be more productive and quicker too!

Seven simple tips - talk one at a time
Photo by Gabriella Clare Marino on Unsplash
Tip 5 – Avoid Shouting

Some people think that it’s a good idea to speak a little louder or more clearly.  We would suggest that a calm, normal tone works best. Always avoid shouting, as it can come across as aggressive.

Tip 6 – Skip Exaggerated Gestures

You should also just talk normally and skip those exaggerated gestures, which can confuse rather than clarify.

Seven simple tips - avoid exaggerated gestures
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
Tip 7 – Soft Furnishings

If you have ever hung curtains in an empty room, you will know that soft furnishings make a real difference. Rooms with high ceilings and hard surfaces can be difficult for everyone, so if you can, add soft furnishings like carpets, curtains or even a cushion or two.  This will reduce echo and improve acoustics.

Seven simple tips - soft furnishings
Photo by Alesia Kazantceva on Unsplash

Want to make your meetings more hearing-friendly?

Hearing Ambassadors offer expert talks to any organisation on simple, effective ways to improve hearing well-being for your entire team.

Click here today to contact us directly or select one of our talks and book an in-person or online session via Speakernet

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Hearing Well-Being Tinnitus

Understanding Tinnitus: The ringing that won’t stop

Photo by Susan Wilkinson on Unsplash

If you’ve ever experienced a persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in your ears when there’s no external noise, you’re not alone. This condition, known as tinnitus, affects millions of people worldwide. For some, it’s a temporary nuisance; for others, it’s a chronic challenge that impacts daily life. But what exactly is tinnitus, what causes it, and how can you manage it? Let’s explore.

What Is Tinnitus?

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head without an external source. It can manifest as ringing, buzzing, whistling, hissing, or even musical tones. While often associated with hearing loss, tinnitus itself is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying issue.

Photo by Anton Malanin on Unsplash

What Causes Tinnitus?

There are several potential causes of tinnitus, including:

  • Hearing Loss: Damage to the tiny hair cells in the inner ear (cochlea) can lead to tinnitus, often accompanying age-related or noise-induced hearing loss.
  • Exposure to Loud Noise: Prolonged or sudden exposure to loud sounds—such as concerts, machinery, or explosions—can trigger tinnitus.
  • Ear Infections and Blockages: Earwax buildup, infections, or fluid in the ear can sometimes cause temporary tinnitus.
  • Medications: Certain drugs, including some antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and high doses of aspirin, can lead to or worsen tinnitus.
  • Medical Conditions: Tinnitus can be linked to conditions such as Ménière’s disease, high blood pressure, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, and even stress and anxiety.
  • Head or Neck Injuries: Trauma to these areas can affect the auditory nerves, leading to tinnitus.
  • Neurological Disorders: Conditions like multiple sclerosis can sometimes trigger tinnitus as well.

Does Tinnitus Always Accompany Hearing Loss?

Not necessarily. While many people with tinnitus also have some degree of hearing loss, others experience it with normal hearing. This suggests that tinnitus isn’t just about the ears—it’s also about how the brain processes sound. In some cases, the brain attempts to compensate for a loss of auditory input, leading to the perception of phantom sounds.

Photo by Ecliptic Graphic on Unsplash

Does Tinnitus Ever Go Away?

For some people, tinnitus is temporary and resolves on its own—such as after attending a loud concert. However, for others, it becomes a long-term condition. While there’s currently no universal cure, many people find ways to reduce its impact and improve their quality of life. Some even experience habituation, where the brain gradually tunes out the sound, making it far less noticeable. This process doesn’t mean the tinnitus disappears, but rather that your brain stops focusing on it, similar to how you stop noticing background noise over time. It takes patience, but many people find that with the right approach, tinnitus becomes much less intrusive.

Photo by Margarida Afonso on Unsplash

How Can You Learn to Live with Tinnitus?

If you have persistent tinnitus, there are several strategies to help manage it:

  • Sound Therapy: Background noise (white noise machines, nature sounds, or soft music) can help mask tinnitus and make it less noticeable.
  • Hearing Aids: If tinnitus is linked to hearing loss, hearing aids can amplify external sounds, making tinnitus less prominent.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Counseling and CBT can help reframe negative thoughts about tinnitus, reducing stress and improving coping mechanisms.
  • Relaxation Techniques: Stress can worsen tinnitus, so activities like mindfulness, deep breathing, and yoga may help.
  • Avoiding Triggers: Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and exposure to loud noises may help prevent tinnitus from worsening.
  • Support Groups & Online Communities: Connecting with others who experience tinnitus can be incredibly reassuring and helpful. You’re not alone, and sharing coping strategies can make a big difference. There are many online forums, social media groups, and local support networks where people share their experiences and advice. Engaging with these communities can provide emotional support and practical tips for managing tinnitus in everyday life.

A great place to start is  Tinnitus UK

Final Thoughts

Tinnitus can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to control your life. By understanding its causes and exploring different management strategies, many people find relief and learn to live comfortably with it.

If tinnitus is affecting your daily life, consider trying some of the above ideas, if these don’t seem to work, seek medical advice.

Keep the conversation going

What has helped you manage it?  Use our Contact Us page to share your thoughts and let us know what helps you to manage your tinnitus.

 

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Hearing Well-Being

Can Auditory Training help with Hearing Well-Being?

Photo by Eric Nopanen on Unsplash

A Sound Idea for Everyone?

Auditory training might sound like something reserved for those with hearing challenges, but it’s actually a practice that can benefit everyone—from people with newly diagnosed hearing loss to those with perfectly good hearing. But what exactly is auditory training, and do you need fancy apps or pricey equipment to get started? Let’s explore.

What Is Auditory Training?

Photo by Christopher Campbell on Unsplash

Auditory training is a structured practice designed to improve how your brain processes sound. It’s often likened to physical therapy for your ears and brain, helping you interpret and understand the sounds around you. This training can be especially beneficial for:

  • People with hearing loss: It helps sharpen listening skills and adapt to changes, such as wearing hearing aids or cochlear implants.
  • Those with good hearing: It improves focus in noisy environments and enhances overall listening ability.

Why Should You Consider It?

If you are newly diagnosed with hearing loss, auditory training can ease the adjustment period, helping you make the most of hearing aids or other devices. The process retrains your brain to focus on essential sounds, like conversations, while filtering out background noise.

Even if you have no hearing loss, auditory training can enhance your ability to concentrate in busy environments, like offices or crowded restaurants. It’s also a fun way to fine-tune your listening skills, which are essential for communication.

Can You Do It at Home Without Breaking the Bank?

Absolutely! While there are excellent apps and professional programs available, many auditory training exercises can be done at home with minimal or no cost. Here are a few ideas:

Photo by Eric Nopanen on Unsplash
  1. Sound Identification Games: Sit quietly and try to identify as many background sounds as possible—birds chirping, a clock ticking, or distant traffic. This improves your auditory awareness.
  2. Focused Listening: Listen to audiobooks or podcasts and try to pick out specific words or phrases. You can also follow along with a transcript to ensure accuracy.
  3. Music Practice: Listen to songs and focus on specific instruments or lyrics. Gradually challenge yourself with more complex pieces.
  4. Speech-in-Noise Practice: Play recordings of conversations with added background noise (YouTube has free options), and focus on following the dialogue.
  5. Mindful Listening: Take a few minutes daily to focus solely on the sounds around you. This practice sharpens your auditory attention.

The Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Auditory training is not just a good idea—it’s a great one. It doesn’t matter if you have perfect hearing or are just beginning your hearing loss journey; the benefits are wide-reaching. Best of all, you don’t need to spend a fortune to start improving your listening skills.

By incorporating simple, cost-free activities into your daily routine, you can train your ears and your brain to be better in tune with the world around you. So, why not give it a try?

We would love to hear about your experiences of auditory training please Click here to contact us

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Hearing Well-Being

4 levels of hearing loss – what are the everyday challenges?

Photo by Jan Meeus on Unsplash

Hearing Loss affects millions of people worldwide, but because it isn’t always visible, the everyday challenges people face often go unnoticed.  The solution isn’t just about “turning up the volume” it’s much more complicated than that. That’s why hearing professionals around the world have set a universal framework to measure and understand how hearing loss is experienced. Recognising the 4 levels of hearing loss will help us to develop empathy and create a more inclusive world for everyone.

Photo by Kyle Glenn on Unsplash

Mild, Moderate, Severe, Profound

The four levels of hearing loss—mild, moderate, severe, and profound—are based on the softest sounds a person can hear, measured in Decibels (dB).  Mild hearing loss typically falls within the 26–40 dB, meaning a person may struggle to hear soft sounds in noisy environments. However, hearing loss can affect clarity and frequency perception, not just volume, which is why making things louder (shouting) doesn’t always help.

Mild, Moderate, Severe and Profound levels come with their own unique challenges.  In this article, we take a look at what life is like at each level.

1. Mild Hearing Loss (26-40 dB)

Photo by Jan Meeus on Unsplash

With mild hearing loss, you might catch most of what’s going on, but you’re straining to fill in the gaps. Quiet sounds—like whispers or someone talking in another room—start to fade away.

Everyday Struggles:

  • Ever been in a busy café and felt like you’re only catching half the conversation? That’s mild hearing loss in action.
  • Soft sounds, like birds chirping or leaves rustling, might just disappear from your world.
  • You might find yourself asking, “Sorry, can you say that again?” more often than you’d like in normal day to day conversations or on the phone.

2. Moderate Hearing Loss (41-60 dB)

Photo by Jeremiah Lawrence on Unsplash

Things get trickier at this level. You’re not just missing the quiet stuff anymore. Even regular conversations can be hard to follow, especially if there’s any background noise.

Everyday Struggles:

  • Group chats or noisy family dinners? Forget it—it’s a struggle to keep up without some serious concentration (or hearing aids).
  • You might not notice the doorbell, a ringing phone, or even a timer going off in the kitchen.
  • People with softer voices—kids, for example—can be really hard to hear clearly.

3. Severe Hearing Loss (61-80 dB)

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

At this stage, hearing aids become less of an option and more of a necessity. Without them, most sounds—like normal conversation—just aren’t audible.

Everyday Struggles:

  • Conversations rely heavily on lip reading, so if someone’s not facing you, good luck!
  • Loud noises, like music or traffic, might still come through, but they’re muffled and unclear.
  • Social events can feel exhausting or isolating because understanding others takes so much effort.

4. Profound Hearing Loss (81+ dB)

Photo by Kai Butcher on Unsplash

This is the most extreme level of hearing loss, where even the loudest sounds—like sirens or shouting—are barely, if at all, noticeable. Communication often relies entirely on sign language, lip reading, or written text.

Everyday Struggles:

  • Alarms and sirens are easily missed, which can create serious safety concerns.
  • Conversations without visual or written support? are pretty much impossible.
  • The risk of isolation is much higher, as communication becomes a constant challenge.

What can you do?

By using this universal framework, professionals everywhere help people to understand their hearing needs and find the right solution, be it communication strategies, hearing aids, or even cochlear implants or bone implants.  We will take a look at the different types of hearing aids in a future post.

Now you understand the 4 levels of hearing loss, it’s time to think about some of the simple things that you can do.

For example…

  • Get their attention and face the person when talking.
  • Speak clearly, without shouting or using exaggerated gestures.
  • If it’s possible, go somewhere quiet or reduce the background noise.

Small adjustments like these can make a world of difference for someone who’s struggling to hear, and you will feel better too, knowing that you have been heard first time!

Visit our website or click on the link below to find out more about Alexander Graham Bell and the Decible scale

Interesting Stuff – The Decibel scale

Hearing Ambassadors blue buttonBack to our Latest News - Hearing Ambassadors

 

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Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being

How does it feel to have hearing loss?

SSE is a bridge between BSL and spoken English
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

It’s not just about sound—it’s about connection.

Hearing Loss is often called an “invisible disability,” for good reason. While others might not notice what someone with hearing loss is experiencing, the daily challenges can be significant and deeply personal.  So how does it feel to have hearing loss?

1. It’s Very Tiring

Photo by Mehrpouya H on Unsplash

When your ears no longer pick up sounds clearly, listening becomes an active task rather than a passive one.  Your brain has to work overtime to fill in the gaps, interpret muffled words, and make sense of incomplete sentences. This constant concentration can leave you feeling mentally and physically exhausted, even after simple conversations. One of the most common experiences for people with hearing loss is fatigue.

2. It’s Frustrating

Imagine constantly having to ask people to repeat themselves. “Can you say that again?” or “I didn’t catch that,” becomes a frequent refrain. While many people are kind and understanding, others may show impatience or brush off the request. This can create a cycle of frustration—both with yourself for not hearing and with others for not understanding.

3. It Can Be Embarrassing

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Asking someone to repeat themselves multiple times can feel embarrassing. You might start to worry that people think you’re not paying attention or that you’re unintelligent. This fear can make social interactions stressful.  Some people pretend they’ve heard something even when they haven’t—a habit that can cause misunderstandings and missed opportunities.

4. It’s Sometimes Easier Not to Try

Photo by Elly M on Unsplash

Because of the fatigue and frustration, there are times when it feels easier to withdraw. Avoiding conversations or declining social invitations can become a coping mechanism. Unfortunately, this can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, compounding the emotional toll of hearing loss.

5. It’s Alienating

Photo by davisuko on Unsplash

Hearing loss can make you feel like an outsider, even in familiar settings. In group conversations, it’s easy to lose track of what’s being discussed, especially when people speak quickly, overlap, or there is background noise. This creates a sense of disconnection, as if the world is moving on without you.

6. It’s Anxiety-Inducing

For many, hearing loss brings a constant undercurrent of anxiety. You might worry about missing critical information at work, mishearing someone’s name, or being caught off guard in an emergency. The uncertainty of not fully understanding your environment can be nerve-wracking.

7. It’s Eye-Opening

Photo by Alexandru Zdrobău on Unsplash

Despite the challenges, hearing loss can also offer perspective. It fosters empathy and patience for others with invisible disabilities and reminds us of the importance of clear communication. For those who find ways to adapt, whether through hearing aids, sign language, or other tools, it can also be an empowering journey of resilience.

Living with hearing loss often requires developing new skills and strategies, which can lead to a deep sense of empowerment. Learning to advocate for your needs, whether by requesting accommodations or educating others, builds confidence. Embracing assistive technologies, such as hearing aids or captioning devices, can open doors to greater independence and connection.

Resilience grows as you find creative solutions to overcome challenges. Many people with hearing loss become adept at reading body language, focusing on visual cues, and cultivating patience—not only with others but also with themselves. These adaptations can spill over into other areas of life, fostering resourcefulness and emotional strength.

Moreover, the experience of living with hearing loss often leads to a stronger sense of community. Joining support groups or connecting with others who share similar experiences can be incredibly validating. These connections remind you that you’re not alone and provide a platform to share tips, encouragement, and understanding.

A Call for Understanding

Photo by Sebastian Bill on Unsplash

If you don’t have hearing loss, understanding these experiences is the first step to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world. Simple changes, like reducing background noise, speaking clearly, and being patient, can make a significant difference.

If you have hearing loss, share your story.  This will help others to grasp the reality of this invisible challenge and help to build a community of support.

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Most importantly, hearing loss is not just about sound—it’s about connection and identity, and navigating a world that isn’t always designed with you in mind. By fostering awareness and understanding, we can all work together to bridge the gaps and ensure no one feels left out of the conversation.

We think a great place to start your journey is Hearing Link Services

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Why Does Hearing Loss Happen? – Understanding the basics

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Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is a common issue that can affect anyone, but by understanding its causes, we can take proactive steps to protect our hearing.

Let’s dive into the key reasons behind hearing loss and how you can safeguard this precious sense.

1. A Build-Up of Earwax

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Earwax plays an essential role in protecting our ears by trapping dust and debris. However, sometimes this wax can accumulate and harden, leading to a blockage that muffles sound. If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of hearing everything as if you’re underwater, earwax buildup might be the culprit. Fortunately, this type of hearing loss is temporary and can be resolved with professional cleaning or over-the-counter remedies. Just remember: resist the urge to use cotton swabs, as they often push wax further into the ear.

2. Ear Infections

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Ear infections don’t just cause discomfort; they can also impact your ability to hear. Infections in the middle or inner ear can lead to temporary or even permanent hearing loss if left untreated. Common culprits include colds, allergies, or water trapped in the ear after swimming. Signs of an ear infection might include pain, a feeling of fullness, or discharge from the ear. Seeking prompt medical treatment can help you avoid complications and regain normal hearing.

3. Medications

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Did you know some medications can harm your hearing? These are known as ototoxic drugs, and they include certain antibiotics, chemotherapy treatments, and even high doses of aspirin. If you’re prescribed medication, it’s crucial to discuss potential side effects with your doctor, especially if you’re already dealing with hearing concerns. Being informed can help you take precautions to minimize risk.

4. The Aging Process

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As we age, our bodies go through natural changes, and our hearing is no exception. Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, is one of the most common types of hearing impairment, typically affecting people over 60. This gradual decline often makes it harder to hear high-pitched sounds or follow conversations in noisy settings. The good news? Hearing aids and assistive listening devices can make a world of difference, allowing you to stay connected and engaged.

5. Exposure to Loud Noises

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Whether it’s a rock concert, a construction site, or prolonged use of headphones at high volumes, exposure to loud noises is one of the leading preventable causes of hearing loss. The damage occurs when loud sounds harm the sensitive hair cells in your inner ear, leading to permanent loss. Protecting your hearing is as simple as wearing ear protection, limiting exposure, and keeping the volume at safe levels when enjoying music or podcasts. Take a look at our Sound Warriors Website for more information about how you can help a young person to prevent irreversible noise-induced hearing loss

6. Hereditary Factors

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Sometimes, hearing loss runs in the family. Genetic predisposition can make individuals more vulnerable to hearing issues, even at a young age. Hereditary hearing loss can affect the structure or function of the ear, or it may make someone more susceptible to other factors like infections or noise-induced damage. If you have a family history of hearing loss, regular check-ups are essential to monitor your hearing and catch any changes early.

Protecting Your Hearing

Hearing loss can feel isolating, but the good news is that many of its causes are preventable or treatable. Here are some simple yet effective ways to protect your hearing:

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall ear health, including a balanced diet rich in nutrients that promote circulation and inner ear function.
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  • Schedule regular hearing check-ups, especially if you notice any changes in your hearing or have a family history of hearing loss.
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  • Use ear protection in noisy environments, like concerts or construction sites, and keep personal audio devices at a safe volume.
  • Seek medical attention promptly if you suspect an ear infection or wax buildup.
  • Discuss the potential side effects of medications with your healthcare provider and ask about alternatives if necessary.

By loving your ears and understanding the factors that contribute to hearing loss, you can start to take proactive steps which will help to preserve your hearing so you can continue to enjoy all the sounds that make life vibrant.

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