World Hearing Day: Promoting Ear and Hearing Care Globally
Since 2015, the World Health Organization has designated March 3 "World Hearing Day." Over 5% of the world's population, including many seniors, suffers from disabling hearing loss. World Hearing Day aims to raise awareness about hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care worldwide.
While many of us accept that our hearing will not be as good as it used to be as we age, there are many things we can do to understand and manage hearing loss more effectively.
In this article, we will explore the role of World Hearing Day in promoting hearing health awareness. We will also look at how seniors can prioritize auditory health and maintain an active and engage lifestyle.
Why World Hearing Day Matters
Hearing loss cuts through all communities in every part of the globe. That's why the World Health Organization (WHO) began World Hearing Day, which aims to put the spotlight on hearing loss as a significant global health issue.
Every year, the WHO chooses a different theme. For example, here are some of the themes chosen in recent years:
- 2025 - Changing mindsets: Empower yourself!
- 2024 - Changing mindsets: Let's make ear and hearing care a reality for all!
- 2023 - Ear and hearing care for all! Let's make it a reality.
The WHO develops advocacy materials that incorporate the latest evidence. These materials include:
- Flyers
- Brochures
- Banners
- Infographics
- Presentations
Many WHO member states choose to host their own activities. Many organizations throughout the United States take the opportunity each year to host events that raise awareness of the causes of hearing loss and encourage early intervention and treatment.
As an older person, hearing loss is no doubt something that concerns you. But how aware are you of the causes of hearing loss and what you can do to slow down its progress?
Raising Awareness of Common Causes of Hearing Loss
Almost everyone experiences some reduction in their hearing as they get older. However, it is not inevitable. Understanding the impact of lifestyle choices and even certain medications could help you address or head off some hearing problems.
Age-Related Hearing Loss
Presbycusis is the medical term for the gradual hearing loss many seniors experience as they get older. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, it affects about 1 in 3 seniors between the ages of 65 and 74. It commonly affects our ability to hear high-pitched noises but not low-pitched ones.
As well as being caused by the aging process, presbycusis can also result from:
- Genetic factors
- Loss of hair cells in the inner ear
- Health conditions like diabetes and heart disease
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
We may associate noise-induced hearing loss with rockers who have years of concerts behind them. However, the causes are often much less glamorous.
Exposure to high levels of noise in the workplace or home can lead to hearing loss. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, some forms of recreation can cause noise-induced hearing loss. These include:
- Target shooting
- Hunting
- Listening to music through headphones at high volume
Ear Infections
We may associate ear infections with young people and mild hearing loss. However, chronic ear infections can affect people of any age and can cause permanent hearing loss.
Infections cause hearing loss, damaging the:
- Eardrum
- Middle ear bones
- Auditory nerve
Ototoxic Medicines
Another aspect of hearing loss, World Hearing Day aims to raise awareness of ototoxicity.
Ototoxicity is damage to the ear caused by medications treating other conditions. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) states that there are over 200 known ototoxic medications. Some of them are prescription-only, while others are available over the counter.
These include some drugs commonly prescribed to treat:
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Serious infections
In some cases, hearing problems go away once treatment is finished. However, in other cases, the damage is permanent. This is an important consideration when weighing up treatment for other conditions and something every senior should discuss with their doctor.
Hearing Loss Prevention and Early Intervention
World Hearing Day's global health initiatives help dispel myths about hearing loss by raising awareness of proactive approaches to ear care. Regular hearing loss diagnosis screenings are just one of several things older people can do to protect their senior auditory health.
Schedule Regular Checkups
Routine hearing checkups are essential to detect hearing loss early, allowing for timely interventions. While assisted living communities do not provide medical services on-site, they can arrange regular appointments with a hearing specialist for you.
Maintain Good Ear Hygiene
Do you think good ear hygiene involves the regular use of Q-tips? Think again!
Earwax is essential to ear health, and cotton swabs only compact it, causing other issues. Instead, gently clean the outside of your ears with a washcloth. If ear wax is starting to build up, consider using baby oil or mineral oil to remove it.
If in doubt, visit your doctor, who can recommend the best way of treating persistent ear wax buildup and advise you on maintaining auditory wellness.
Use Hearing Aids or Assistive Devices
The right hearing aids can greatly impact seniors' quality of life. However, it's important to recognize that different types of hearing loss require different hearing aids.
Hearing aids that amplify sound are good for sensorineural hearing loss, which includes age-related hearing loss. However, if you have conductive hearing loss, they may not be as effective as bone-conduction hearing aids.
At a senior living community, you will be assisted to access the auditory care services you need to ensure you have the right hearing aids for your condition.
Managing Hearing Loss at Addington Place of Sparta
World Hearing Day is an important way to improve our awareness of the causes and treatments for hearing loss in people of all ages. However, if you are already struggling with hearing loss, you need a supportive environment tailored to your needs.
At the vibrant assisted living community at Addington Place of Sparta, we have the support you need to thrive with hearing loss. Our compassionate caretakers know how to communicate effectively. Quiet spaces for conversation are perfect for nurturing bonds with fellow residents.
Come and discover for yourself how enjoyable life at Addington Place of Sparta can be! Schedule a tour today.