#United States #IHS #Farmington Hills #Hearing Loss #Better Hearing Month

April Showers Bring May Awareness

As April draws to a close, the International Hearing Society (IHS) gears up to celebrate May as Better Hearing Month. This year is especially significant, marking a hundred years since May was designated to enhance public awareness about hearing health and to empower those with hearing loss. The urgency of this campaign is punctuated by the alarming projection from the World Health Organization (WHO) that by 2050, one in four individuals globally will be affected by hearing loss.

In a recent survey conducted by The Harris Poll, it was revealed that 64% of U.S. adults aged 50 and above have encountered some degree of hearing difficulty. However, a mere 14% have ever attempted to use hearing aids, and nearly 25% of them have never undergone a formal hearing assessment.

IHS President Michael Andreozzi emphasizes the necessity of regular hearing tests for the early detection and intervention of hearing loss. In a statement, he said, "Scheduling regular hearing tests is crucial for early detection and intervention of hearing loss. IHS invites individuals to utilize the Find-A-Provider tool on our website, which connects them with licensed Hearing Aid Specialists in their area."

Taking the initiative to address hearing health is a monumental step and deserves celebration. However, many individuals remain unaware that postponing treatment for hearing loss can significantly affect various aspects of their overall wellbeing, including physical safety and quality of life. The Harris Poll survey found that one in four Americans over 50 do not recognize the correlation between hearing health and overall wellness.

IHS advocates for early intervention as a means to mitigate the risk of other health issues like social isolation, depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and even dementia.

To ascertain if you might be experiencing hearing loss, it's helpful to ask yourself several questions:

• - Do I hear better in one ear?
• - Do I have difficulty following conversations, particularly in noisy environments or on the phone?
• - Do I require elevated volume levels when using electronic devices?
• - Do I struggle to hear voices distinctly?
• - Am I having trouble hearing high-pitched sounds?
• - Do I experience dizziness, pain, or ringing in my ears?
• - Do I find it challenging to hear when on the phone?

If you answered 'yes' to any of these queries, don't hesitate. Use the Find a Provider tool accessible on the IHS website to kick-start your hearing health journey. While it may seem daunting to acknowledge potential hearing loss, addressing the issue promptly can yield significant benefits for your future.

Making Hearing Health a Priority

The significance of May as Better Hearing Month cannot be overstated. Raising public consciousness around hearing health is essential, especially as millions face the consequences of untreated hearing loss. IHS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the rights of individuals with hearing impairments, highlighting the importance of intervention, education, and support in enhancing their quality of life.

Founded in 1951, the International Hearing Society is a professional association representing hearing healthcare specialists globally. Its members engage in important tasks including conducting hearing assessments, fitting and dispensing hearing instruments, counseling patients, and providing ongoing care.

For more information on Better Hearing Month and resources to support hearing health, visit IHS website.