Category: Hearing Ambassadors

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Accessible Communication Hearing Well-Being Technology workplace

How is technology making life easier for people with hearing loss

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When it comes to hearing loss, technology has become an amazing ally.  There’s so much inexpensive tech out there that can work alongside hearing aids or even help people who don’t have them yet. Let’s look at how technology is making life easier for people with hearing loss and why it’s worth checking out.

Making Hearing Aids Even Better

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Hearing aids are brilliant, but pairing them with modern tech can take them to the next level. Here’s how it works:

  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Lots of hearing aids now come with Bluetooth, so you can connect them to your phone, laptop, or tablet. This means you can stream calls, Zoom meetings, or even your favourite playlist straight to your hearing aids.
  • Real-Time Captions: Apps like Google Live Transcribe or Otter.ai can turn spoken words into captions instantly.  Zoom and MS TEAMS also offer live captions for online meetings. Live captions are great for meetings, chats, or anywhere you might miss a word or two.
  • Remote Adjustments: Some hearing aids come with apps that let you tweak the settings yourself or have an audiologist help you out remotely. No need for endless trips to the clinic!
  • Extra Gadgets: Things like TV streamers or clip-on microphones can connect to your hearing aids and give you clearer sound, whether you’re watching a show or sitting in a noisy meeting.
    Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

Tech for People Without Hearing Aids

If you’re not using hearing aids yet, don’t worry—there’s still plenty of tech to make life easier. Here are a few examples:

  • Speech-to-Text Apps: Apps like Microsoft Translator, Ava, and Live Transcribe can turn conversations into text right in front of you. Super handy in noisy places or if you’re struggling to keep up.
  • Noise-Cancelling Headphones: A good pair of noise-cancelling headphones can help you focus on what you want to hear by cutting out background noise.
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  • Captions for Media: Streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube offer free captions, so you don’t miss a thing when you’re watching your favorite shows or learning something new.
  • Hearing Check Apps: Apps like Mimi Hearing Test or Starkey Hear Share let you check your hearing at home. It’s a great first step if you think you might have some hearing loss.

Why Bother with These Tools?

1. Better Sound Quality & Clarity – Modern hearing aids and assistive devices provide clearer, more natural sound than ever before. Features like background noise reduction, directional microphones, and AI-driven sound processing help enhance speech clarity, making conversations easier and more enjoyable.

2. More Connectivity & Convenience – New devices seamlessly connect to smartphones, televisions, and computers via Bluetooth, allowing users to stream phone calls, music, and videos directly to their ears. This reduces the struggle of trying to hear through speakers or in noisy environments.

3. More Affordable & Accessible Options – Hearing technology is becoming more affordable, with over-the-counter hearing aids available in some countries (but not UK). Additionally, free or inexpensive smartphone apps offer features like speech-to-text and real-time sound amplification, making hearing support more accessible.

4. Improved Social Inclusion – Difficulty hearing can lead to isolation, as conversations in noisy environments become exhausting. By using new technologies, such as Bluetooth directional microphones that connect directly into your hearing aids, people with hearing loss can engage more comfortably in social and workplace settings, improving confidence and overall well-being.

5. Customizable & User-Friendly Features – Many hearing devices now come with smartphone apps that allow users to personalise their hearing preferences, adjust settings, and track their hearing health over time. This level of customisation makes assistive technology more adaptable to individual needs.

7. Expanding Beyond Hearing Aids – Hearing support is no longer limited to traditional hearing aids. Devices such as personal amplifiers, vibrating alarm clocks, and smart home integrations (like flashing doorbells) provide additional support in everyday life.

Getting Started

There’s so much tech out there, but you don’t need to try it all at once. Start small and see what works for you:

  • Try Free Apps: Download a speech-to-text app or take an online hearing test to see how it helps.
  • Use What You Have: Check your phone or tablet for built-in accessibility features such as live captions or sound boosters.
  • Experiment with Accessories: Bluetooth headphones, clip-on mics, or other gadgets can be great additions to your routine.  Remember though, as everyone’s hearing is different, it’s always worth asking if you can “try before you buy” or get a full refund if the device doesn’t work for you.

The Future of Hearing Tech

As technology keeps improving, the options for affordable hearing support are only going to grow. Whether you’re using hearing aids or just starting to explore tools for hearing loss, there’s something out there to make life easier. The world of hearing technology is evolving rapidly, offering new and improved ways to enhance communication and accessibility.

For example, Apple AirPods with hearing aid features are now available in the UK.  As a charity, we don’t endorse any products but we would love to hear about your experiences.  Click on the link below to see Christopher Null’s review of the new AirPods in WIRED magazine. Apple AirPods Review from WIRED

Tell us about what technology has made a difference to your daily life. Click here to contact us

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Accessible Communication Communication Hearing Loss Hearing Well-Being workplace

Why is good lighting good for hearing?

Good Lighting
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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

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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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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Communication Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being

Talking to Me: Bridging the Communication Gap

Talking to me - ask for clarification
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Not everyone immediately understands how to communicate effectively with someone who is hard of hearing. That’s why we created “Talking to Me,” a Hearing Ambassador’s resource to help bridge the communication gap caused by hearing loss.

“Talking to Me” offers eight simple tips which will empower you to advocate for your needs. It is inspired by Gael Hannan’s thought-provoking YouTube video, and we hope it will help to contribute to a more inclusive world.

1. Be open

One of the most empowering steps is to let people know about your hearing difficulty. A simple statement like, “It helps me follow the conversation better when I can see your face—would you mind facing me when you speak?” sets expectations and helps others adjust how they talk to you. This puts you in control of the conversation and ensures you get the clarity you need.

Talking to Me - please face me when you speak
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2. Say what works best for you 

Different people have different communication needs. Some may rely on lip reading, while others benefit from written communication or assistive technology. Clearly and confidently letting others know how you prefer to communicate not only improves conversations but also raises awareness and understanding of how others can engage with “Talking to Me”

3. Be in a space that works for you

You deserve to communicate in a space that works for you. Good lighting and minimal background noise can make a huge difference. Don’t hesitate to adjust your position slightly so it’s easier to see their facial expressions, or even suggest moving to a quieter spot. Taking the lead in these situations helps create a more accessible environment for everyone.

4. Ask for clarification

If something isn’t clear, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. Tell them that a relaxed and steady rhythm makes speech easier to follow and there is absolutely no need for them to shout or exaggerate lip movements.

Talking to me - ask for clarification
Photo by Mimi Thian on Unsplash

5. Use Visual and Non-Verbal Cues

Communication is so much more than just words. Use gestures, pointing, or written notes when needed to reinforce your understanding. Simply nodding or shaking your head can provide feedback to show if you’re following the conversation. These tools help you stay engaged and in control of how you communicate.

6. Advocate for Hearing-Friendly Practices

When you speak up for your communication needs, you’re also speaking up for millions of others. Simple requests, like one person speaking at a time in meetings or using good lighting and captions on video calls, create a more inclusive environment for everyone. You’ll be surprised at how receptive people are and how much these changes enhance understanding for everyone.

By taking the lead, you will make a real difference.

7. Make the most of Technology

Technology is a powerful ally. Smartphone apps, hearing aids, and speech-to-text technology can enhance conversations. Many people find it fascinating to see how their words are translated in real-time, turning the conversation into a shared learning experience for everyone. Don’t hesitate to use technology and encourage others to do so. Your ability to access information and engage in discussions should never be compromised.

8. Stay Patient and Positive

Taking control of communication doesn’t mean it will always be easy. Not everyone will immediately understand how to communicate effectively with someone who is hard of hearing. By remaining patient, using humor when appropriate, and offering gentle reminders, you create a more supportive and inclusive environment.

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Final Thoughts

People with hearing loss often develop heightened visual skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and a profound understanding of communication. Let’s celebrate these strengths and educate others about the positive aspects of hearing loss, shifting the conversation from limitation to empowerment, shaping the world for the better.

Continue the “Talking to Me” conversation and let us have your tips on what has worked well for you.

========> Get in Touch

 

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Hearing Well-Being

Language Matters

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How Do People with Hearing Loss Self-Identify?

Language matters, especially when it comes to identity. For those with hearing loss, how they describe themselves can be deeply personal, influenced by cultural factors, life experiences, and even how others perceive them. But what terms are most commonly used, and what are the connotations behind them? Let’s explore the different ways people with hearing loss self-identify and what might be the best approach.

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Hearing Impaired – A Term Falling Out of Favour?

For many years, “hearing impaired” was widely used in medical and professional settings to describe individuals with hearing loss. However, this term has fallen out of favor, particularly within Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. The word “impaired” carries a negative connotation, implying a deficiency or something that needs to be fixed. Many people prefer more neutral or affirming language that doesn’t frame their hearing loss as a limitation. That said, some medical professionals and institutions still use the term, though its usage is gradually declining in favour of more person-centered language.

Deaf – A Strong Cultural Identity!

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For those who identify as Deaf (with a capital ‘D’), hearing loss is not just a medical condition but a cultural identity. Deaf individuals, particularly those who use sign language as their primary mode of communication, are part of a rich and vibrant Deaf community. They often reject the idea that they are “missing” something and instead celebrate Deaf culture and the unique way they experience the world.

Lowercase “deaf” is sometimes used more generally to describe a severe or profound hearing loss without necessarily implying cultural affiliation.

Hard of Hearing – A Common Middle Ground?

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Many people with partial hearing loss prefer the term “hard of hearing” (HoH) as it accurately describes their experience without labeling them as either Deaf or impaired. This term is widely accepted and used by advocacy groups and individuals alike. It acknowledges hearing loss while allowing for a broad spectrum of experiences, from mild to severe.

Another commonly used term is “late-deafened”, which describes individuals who have lost their hearing later in life. Unlike those who are born Deaf or hard of hearing, people with “acquired hearing loss“often face unique challenges in adapting to a world without sound, particularly if they previously relied on spoken communication.

Slightly Deaf, Partially Deaf, or Hearing Challenged – Informal but Descriptive

Some people, particularly those with mild to moderate hearing loss, might refer to themselves as “slightly deaf” or “partially deaf.” These terms can be useful in everyday conversation to quickly convey their hearing status. Another term some people use is “hearing challenged,” which emphasises the difficulties faced without implying a complete lack of hearing. However, these terms are not widely recognized in medical or advocacy contexts, and their meaning may vary from person to person.

What’s the Best Term to Use?


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There is no single “best” term—it all depends on personal preference. However, what matters most is how individuals with hearing loss communicate their needs. No matter how someone self-identifies, the key to better interactions is expressing what helps them in conversation. The best way to be supportive is to ask and listen.

Language Matters!

The words we use shape our understanding of hearing loss and those who experience it. By being mindful of language, we can create a more inclusive and respectful conversation around hearing identity.

No matter the term, what matters most is recognising and supporting the diverse experiences of people with hearing loss. Whether someone identifies as Deaf, hard of hearing, or something else entirely, what’s most important is listening—both figuratively and literally—to how they wish to be seen and understood.

We love this video about how language matters from Gael Hannan

Photo by Bart LaRue on Unsplash

If you have hearing loss, how do you prefer to identify?

Share your thoughts in the comments!

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Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being

How does it feel to have hearing loss?

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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

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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.

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

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Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being Hearing Well-Being

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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Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being

Hearing Well-Being in the Workplace

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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.

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Hearing Ambassadors Presentations in the community

A Sound Solution for All Audiences

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 Brian Blessed,  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.

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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

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Hearing Ambassadors Sound Warriors

How loud is too loud for kids?

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.

Sound Warriors logo for newsIn 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.

  1. Use noise-reducing or noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds when using personal listening devices.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

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