Hearing Ambassadors
Rotarian Trish Greenwood started to lose her hearing at the age of 27 and struggled to find acceptance of her disability in the hearing world that she had always known. Determined to adapt, she wore hearing aids and learned BSL.
When she became profoundly deaf, she had a cochlear implant, but to her surprise, she discovered she was not accepted in a Deaf world either. So where does she belong? Watch here to discover more.
Ear Wax – a natural part of hearing health – but sometimes a bit of a nuisance!
When we think about hearing, ear wax probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But this sticky substance plays a surprisingly important role in keeping our ears healthy. So what exactly is ear wax – and what should we do about it when it builds up?
Ear wax, or cerumen, is a natural substance produced by glands in your ear canal. It’s made from a mix of dead skin cells, oils, and sweat. It might not sound very appealing, but ear wax has an important job:
️ Protecting – It traps dust, dirt, and even tiny insects, preventing them from reaching your eardrum.
Fighting infections – It has antibacterial properties to help prevent infections.
Moisturising – It keeps the delicate skin inside the ear from becoming dry or irritated.
In short, earwax is a self-cleaning, protective barrier for your ears.
Here is a fun YouTube video which explains Earwax from Colossal Cranium
Most of the time, earwax works its way out of the ear naturally, helped along by chewing and jaw movement. But sometimes it doesn’t leave the ear canal as it should. Common reasons for buildup include:
Using cotton buds (which can push wax further in)
Wearing hearing aids or earplugs regularly
Naturally narrow or curved ear canals
Overproduction of wax, which can happen as we age
If earwax builds up, it can cause symptoms like:
Muffled hearing
A feeling of fullness in the ear
Ringing (tinnitus)
Earache or even dizziness
Don’t stick anything in your ears. That includes cotton buds, fingers, hair pins or anything else – these can cause damage and push wax deeper.
Here are some safer ways to manage ear wax:
If you’re not having any symptoms, leave it alone. Most ear wax clears naturally without any need for treatment.
Over-the-counter ear drops (like olive oil or sodium bicarbonate drops) can soften wax so it can work its way out more easily. These are safe for most people if used as directed.
If wax is causing problems, your GP or a trained ear care specialist can safely remove it. They might use:
Microsuction (gentle suction to remove wax)
Irrigation (flushing with warm water)
Manual removal with special tools
Always seek advice before trying anything new, especially if you have a perforated eardrum, ear infection, or wear hearing aids.
Hearing aid users are more likely to experience wax build-up, which can affect both hearing and the performance of the devices. Regular ear checks and hearing aid cleaning are essential to avoid feedback, blockage, and discomfort.
Ear wax might not be glamorous, but it’s a natural and important part of ear health. Understanding how it works – and knowing when to seek help – can make a big difference, especially if you’re managing hearing loss or using hearing aids.
When in doubt, leave it to the professionals. Your ears will thank you.
For lots of other interesting facts about healthy hearing please see Hearing Ambassadors Healthy Hearing Hub
When it comes to hearing well, having the right audiologist by your side can make all the difference. Whether you’re getting hearing aids for the first time, managing long-term hearing loss, or just starting to notice a change, your relationship with your audiologist plays a central role in how confident, supported, and successful you feel.
But what does make a good audiologist? And how do you know you’ve found one?
A good audiologist doesn’t just test your hearing; they listen to your story. They take time to understand your lifestyle, your concerns, and how hearing loss is affecting you. They’ll ask about the noisy cafés, the quiet phone calls, the frustration, the fatigue — and tailor their support accordingly.
The world of audiograms, decibels, and frequency ranges can be confusing. A good audiologist explains things in plain language, checks that you’ve understood, and makes sure you feel informed — not overwhelmed. You should never feel rushed or left with unanswered questions.
Hearing loss is personal, emotional, and sometimes unpredictable. A good audiologist gives you time to adjust, try things out, and make decisions at your own pace. They recognise that hearing well isn’t just about devices — it’s about confidence, connection, and dignity.
Not every hearing solution works straight away. A good audiologist manages expectations gently and honestly — they’ll let you know what to expect, when to ask for adjustments, and when to persevere or try something new. They never push unnecessary products.
The first fitting is just the start. A good audiologist checks in, encourages follow-up visits, and supports you through your hearing journey. They understand that your needs may change over time, and they’re ready to help — not just at the beginning, but throughout.
A good audiologist works with other professionals if needed — your GP, ENT specialist, or workplace. They’re part of your support team, and they don’t hesitate to refer you on if something is outside their scope. They want the best outcome for you.
If you’re not getting the support you need, it’s OK to speak up. You can ask for a second opinion, request a different audiologist, or even change providers. You deserve to feel heard and respected.
Whether your hearing care is through the NHS or a private clinic, you should feel confident in your audiologist’s care and comfortable in the process.
Your hearing is too important to settle for anything less.
Have you had a great (or not-so-great) experience with an audiologist? We’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment or message us directly.
The NHS website has some great information about what audiologists do.
#HearingHealth #Audiologist #HearingSupport #HearingLoss #GoodCommunication #HearingAmbassadors
We recently received a heartfelt message from one of our readers that really resonated — and we suspect it might with you too.
“While browsing the web yesterday I came across your very helpful site. I’m not sure how I didn’t pick it up sooner – but it was a very timely event as I’m feeling really quite down about my hearing. I’ll be 81 in a few days’ time…”
This gentleman’s story spans six decades of living with hearing loss — a journey marked by persistence, frustration, and resilience. Diagnosed in his twenties with significant hearing loss in one ear, he was told by hospital audiology that “it’s not something we can correct.” He was eventually given hearing aids, but support remained minimal.
Many years later, another hearing test showed that his other ear now had almost no hearing. Yet again, a consultant’s letter advised him to simply “carry on” with hearing aids — with no further investigation.
Fortunately, a referral to a specialist centre changed everything. There, doctors identified an acoustic schwannoma, a type of benign tumour, and provided targeted treatment and new hearing technology (BiCROS aids). For the first time in decades, he felt his hearing needs were properly understood — and his previously “poor” ear became the better one.
Now in his early 80s, he’s once again facing difficulties. Both sets of hearing aids — NHS and private — have let him down, and he fears his remaining hearing may be declining. Another specialist appointment is on the horizon, and he’s understandably anxious and hoping for answers.
Sadly, this story is not unique. Many people are told to simply “get on with it” — that hearing loss is inevitable, not treatable, or not worth further investigation. But here’s the truth:
You are entitled to proper care and attention — at any age.
Here are some steps you can take if you feel you’re not being listened to or supported:
If you feel something isn’t right — a sudden drop in hearing, one-sided loss, tinnitus, dizziness, or hearing aids no longer helping — don’t ignore it. Keep a simple log of your concerns to share with your GP or audiologist.
If your first consultation leaves you with more questions than answers, ask to be referred elsewhere — ideally to a specialist ENT or audiology centre. You have the right to be heard, quite literally.
Some conditions, like acoustic neuromas (schwannomas), can go undetected unless someone takes the time to investigate further. If your GP listens and takes action — as in the case above — it can make all the difference.
If you suspect your hearing aids are no longer working well, request a reassessment. You may need reprogramming, servicing, or new technology. If you have aids from both NHS and private providers, don’t be afraid to compare and ask questions.
You are not alone. Connecting with charities, support groups, or local hearing clinics can provide emotional support, practical tips, and sometimes even advocacy help.
We’re so grateful to our reader for sharing his story — and we wish him the very best at his upcoming appointment.
Have you ever felt let down by the hearing care system? What did you do about it?
We’d love to hear your experience — and any advice you’d give others in a similar situation. Let’s learn from each other and help make sure no one is left to struggle alone.
Please click here to share your story
Hear are some groups that might help you:
Hearing Loss Association of America
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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]
If you are interested in exploring balance classes—especially those suitable for people with hearing loss—here are some good places to start:
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.
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.
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”
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To create a hearing-friendly environment, consider the following lighting tips:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
You should also just talk normally and skip those exaggerated gestures, which can confuse rather than clarify.
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.
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
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.
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.
There are several potential causes of tinnitus, including:
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.
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.
If you have persistent tinnitus, there are several strategies to help manage it:
A great place to start is Tinnitus UK
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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