Category: Hearing Ambassadors

How does it feel to have hearing loss?

Post author By A & G Campbell
Post date 19 January 2025

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

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.

Why Does Hearing Loss Happen? – Understanding the basics

Post author By A & G Campbell
Post date 12 January 2025

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

Photo by Liz Sanchez-Vegas on Unsplash

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

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

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

Photo by Ksenia Yakovleva on Unsplash

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

Photo by Johnny Cohen on Unsplash

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

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

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.

Photo by Monika Grabkowska on Unsplash

Schedule regular hearing check-ups, especially if you notice any changes in your hearing or have a family history of hearing loss.

Photo by Sai Abhinivesh Burla on Unsplash

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.

Tags hearing loss, why

Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being

Hearing Well-Being in the Workplace

Post author By A & G Campbell
Post date 3 November 2024

Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash

Why Hearing Well-being Matters for Mental Health

Most of us recognize that exercise, nutrition, and mindfulness play significant roles in keeping us mentally and physically fit. But how often do we consider the impact of our hearing on our mental well-being? Research shows that untreated hearing issues can lead to increased levels of stress, social withdrawal, and even cognitive decline, all of which can have a profound impact on workplace morale and productivity.

Hearing health is especially relevant in today’s noisy environments. The morning commute, bustling open-plan offices and virtual meetings with suboptimal audio quality all affect our well-being at work. Many employees are not aware of how noise affects them until it’s too late. That’s why addressing hearing well-being is essential in a holistic workplace wellness program.

Hearing Well-being – Lunch and Learn

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Hearing Ambassadors offers a fresh approach to hearing health at work with our 30-minute lunchtime sessions that are designed for people of all ages and backgrounds. In these quick, informative seminars, we:

Debunk Myths: Separate fact from fiction about hearing loss, hearing protection, and workplace noise.
Offer Practical Support: Equip employees with tips to manage and protect their hearing in noisy environments.
Promote Awareness: Share information on how hearing health impacts mental well-being and productivity.

Creating a Culture of Well-being

Our goal is to make hearing health as accessible and approachable as possible. In just half an hour, employees can gain valuable insights into preserving their hearing, preventing potential future issues, and understanding how hearing health is linked to stress management and mental resilience.

If you are looking to enhance your well-being initiatives, consider adding hearing health to your toolkit. Let’s make “hearing well” part of your team’s journey toward a happier, healthier workplace.

For more information about our lunchtime Hearing Well-being sessions, please reach out to info@HearingAmbassadors.org and help us make hearing health an essential part of workplace well-being.

Hearing Ambassadors Presentations in the community

A Sound Solution for All Audiences

Post author By A & G Campbell
Post date 22 May 2024

Embracing clear communication

Have you ever been in a crowded room for a club meeting or speaker event and had to strain to hear the presenter? Have you ever decided not even to attempt to figure out what is being said because it’s just too frustrating? As Hearing Ambassadors, we know the importance of clear communication, especially for people with reduced hearing. That’s why we like to use sound amplification at all of our talks even to relatively small groups. In fact, our sound system made such a positive impression on the Market Rasen Rotary Club that they asked us for our recommendations.

Why amplification matters, even in small venues

Everybody knows that sound amplification is important for large venues, but they don’t always realise that a good microphone and amplifier can be a game-changer in smaller venues too. Here’s why:

Better Focus and Engagement: When people can hear clearly, they’re more likely to stay focused and engaged with the speaker.
Improved Clarity: Even without hearing loss, background noise or poor acoustics can make it difficult for everyone to understand what is being said. Amplification ensures everyone gets the message.
Accessibility for All: Amplification creates a more inclusive environment for everyone, especially those with reduced hearing ability.

A talk for everyone, not just those in the front row!

Speakers often claim they can project their voice even in a large room. This may be true for trained actors like a giant of a man with a booming, operatic voice, but most of us need some help to speak to the very back of the room.

For those who say they don’t need a microphone, Hearing Ambassadors have some great ideas to help you to calm those nerves.

Before the Event, explain to the speaker that you want everyone to hear the message, not just those in the front row so you have a sound system to help them to get their message across loud and clear.
Make it Easy: Ensure the amplification system is fully charged, easy to use and readily available. Have someone on hand to assist the speaker if needed.
Just before the meeting, do a sound check and offer a brief guidance on microphone techniques.
During the meeting: For everyone to be on the same page, ask the speaker to repeat any questions from the group before answering. That way, people in the back can hear the question and the answer too!

Showcase your commitment to accessibility

With your new Sound System, you will be adding a professional touch to your events. Crisp audio demonstrates attention to detail and creates a more polished atmosphere. Professional Speakers often prefer venues with good sound systems. Promoting yours can make you a more attractive option and help you secure top talent.

Make sure you use Sound System for every event so it becomes the norm, not simply a special accommodation. Showcasing your commitment to accessibility positions you as a thoughtful and caring organization.

The Verdict from Market Rasen Rotary Club?

This is what they said:

“Many thanks to your help and in particular to Tony Waldron for his suggestions. We had a few meetings to discus the options and in the end we went for a Sound System which seems to do all that we wanted and also came with a couple of decent wireless mics included”

Want to know more?

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you would a member of our team to come to your organisation to give our talk about hearing accessibility for all which we call “Hear Here”.

You can find out more about our talks on Speakernet

Photos

Cover Photo: Lady with pan on her head Photo by Intricate Explorer on Unsplash

Microphone: Photo by Mika Baumeister on Unsplash

Lady giving a talk: Photo by Natasha Hall on Unsplash

Tags accessibility, Amplifier, Mic, Mircophone, Rotary

Hearing Ambassadors Sound Warriors

How loud is too loud for kids?

Post author By A & G Campbell
Post date 22 July 2023

katie-gerrard-sSHzsuYBc9U-unsplash

How loud? How long?

Unwanted noise is one of the most common environmental problems that is experienced by almost everyone daily. Throughout human history, noise has been recognized as a nuisance and, in some cases, an environmental hazard. To answer the question “How loud is too loud for kids”, we will start by looking at the regulations.

In Britain, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has clear guidelines for safe sound levels in the workplace. Sound is measured in Decibels and the guidance states that if employees are exposed to 85 Decibels (or more) on average every working day, they are regarded as being at risk of what is known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). The HSE state that all employees in this situation must be offered hearing protection.

That’s just the starting point. Now we need to know if 85 Decibels is a safe listening level for kids. Unfortunately, this is a bit more difficult than it sounds because the only regulations that we have are for adults in the workplace. There are no regulations for the young ears of growing children. To answer our question, we must delve a little deeper. The guidance comes in two parts, loudness (decibels or dbA) and duration.

Duration is easy to measure, but how loud is 85 Decibels? Well, it is about the noise level of a domestic food mixer. If 85 Decibels is safe for adults, you might have thought that a few Decibels here or there wouldn’t make much of a difference. That is where you would be wrong. For every 3 Decibels increase in sound, safe listening time halves. In other words, if the noise increases from 85 to 88 Decibels (the sound of a hair dryer), the safe daily exposure reduces to 4 hours. You can see the effects of loudness and duration on our Decibel Chart

So far, so good.

To test the amount of noise pollution that people might be exposed to on a normal day, we decided to measure sound levels on a typical commuter journey. We chose London, but our experiment could have taken place in any town or city. We used a free smartphone app to measure the sounds that we encountered.

Amazingly, we recorded levels of up to 97 Decibels on our 30-minute walk to the station. This is 8 times louder than the 85 Decibels, HSE workplace guideline. Our train journey also peaked at 97 Decibels. In fact, by the time that we had arrived at our destination, we had used up all our daily safe exposure time and we still had a full working day ahead of us as well as the reverse journey home. No wonder more and more people are noticing they have hearing loss!

Workplace versus Recreational noise

Noise is noise. You can’t distinguish between workplace noise, environmental noise, and recreational noise.

It is an indisputable fact that prolonged exposure to loud noise has the potential to cause permanent irreversible damage to our hearing. Take a typical concert or gig where noise levels are 110-120 Decibels. If you are not wearing suitable hearing protection, safe listening time is just a matter of seconds.

Hearing Ambassadors believe that to gain the maximum benefit for lifelong good listening, people should start when they are young. That’s why we set up our Sound Warriors project.

In our quest to discover safe listening levels for kids, we found a fascinating article published by the World Health Organisation in 2018. They reviewed all the available studies at that time and although it is a bit technical, it is incredibly helpful.

Recommendation

In the above article, The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommend that the best way of protecting under 18s would be to adopt not 85 but a 75 Decibel limit, some 8 times quieter than the adult limit. They are concerned that recreational noise is much more difficult to control than occupational noise because social pressures result in young adults actively seeking out recreational environments or activities that have hazardous levels of noise such as bars, discos, gyms, sporting events, personal listening devices and gaming machines.

Things you can do

Grown-ups need to understand what is at stake here because children do not have the autonomy to make health decisions and young adults are likely to engage in behaviour that increases their exposure to high levels of noise.

It is not all doom and gloom, because although its irreversible, noise-induced hearing loss is entirely preventable. Here are several practical ideas from the WHO which will reduce a child’s exposure to recreational noise.

Use noise-reducing or noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds when using personal listening devices.
Limit participation in sporting events, concerts, and other activities where noise levels are likely to be excessively high and wear hearing protection regardless of the duration of exposure.
Utilize smart devices to measure noise exposure of venues and activities to determine if noise exceeds 80 dBA, and adjust behaviours and exposure as necessary.

If you would like to know more about safe listening for children and young people, please email us via our contact form

In this article, we used the following images from Unsplash.com

Girl with headphones – katie-gerrard-sSHzsuYBc9U-unsplash

Watch – luke-chesser-rCOWMC8qf8A-unsplash.jpg

London Street – abi-ismail-fzpsFoatUUo-unsplash

Tags children, Decibel, HSE, kids, parents, WHO

Hearing Ambassadors Presentations in the community

Presentation at Eckington Probus Club

Post author By TT
Post date 2 April 2023

On Wednesday we were the invited speakers for Eckington Probus Club. Probus is an organisation for retired or semi retired Professional and Business people. The Eckington Club is in north east Derbyshire. It’s such a great club, and a wonderful venue. They meet at the Restaurant at the Renishaw https://www.therestaurantattherenishaw.co.uk every month.

We are really looking forward to forging strong links with members.

Back to our Latest News - Sound Warriors

Tags Eckington, Probus

Hearing Ambassadors Presentations in the community

Hearing Ambassadors Presentation for Bolsover Rotary

Post author By TT
Post date 29 March 2023

We were delighted to make a presentation at Bolsover Rotary’s meeting.

If you would like us to give a presentation to your organisation, please email us on info@HearingAmbassadors.org, and we will do our best to meet your requirements.

Tags Bolsover, presentation, Rotary