Research
From the chronicles
Study shows gamers risk hearing loss
A survey of video gamers aged 18–35-years old found that more than three-quarters regularly engage in activities that can be detrimental to hearing, including 52% who use headphones for long periods or at loud volumes. Up to a third were aware of are already experiencing hearing loss. However, when informed of their risk for hearing […]
Continue readingLet’s not focus solely on hearing aids in reducing dementia risk
It is important not to focus solely on hearing loss or hearing aids because dementia risk may be attributable to many other health factors that intersect with hearing loss and communication. There is still no evidence based on randomized, controlled trial (RCT) studies that treating hearing loss reduces the risk of dementia. ACHIEVE is the […]
Continue readingYou should wear your hearing aids consistently– here is why!
Some fascinating research outlines why it is important to wear hearing aids consistently: In the second half of the experiment, some were able to ride a bicycle! If they had been able to remove the goggles for any length of time during the experiment, the results would not have been the same; the brain […]
Continue readingDo hearing aids prevent dementia?
The short answer is that there is no evidence. The ACHIEVE trial results published in 2023 provide evidence that comprehensive aural rehab, with hearing aid use, effectively improves communication outcomes. However, there was no significant overall effect of aural rehab on the rate of cognitive decline. A reduction in the rate of cognitive decline was […]
Continue readingChildren are more susceptible to noise than adults!
Classrooms can be noisy! Classroom noise levels are expressed as signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which compares the level of the signal (teacher’s voice) to the level of noise. A typical, noisy classroom will vary in SNR from + 5 to – 7 dB. Research showed that at 0 dB SNR, adults and older children, when compared […]
Continue readingDid you hear? Silk can be used to reduce sound
The world is a noisy place. Unwanted noise is a problem in schools, in our homes, and in work spaces. An interdisciplinary collaboration of researchers from MIT developed a sound-suppressing silk fabric that could be used to create quiet spaces. An open-access paper about the research appears in the Advanced Materials journal. Let’s say your next-door neighbours […]
Continue readingThe link between exercise and hearing loss
Older adults with hearing loss are less physically active. This may mediate the association between hearing loss and other adverse outcomes. Recognition of this potential association is essential (Assi et al, 2024). The connection between exercise and better hearing has challenged the assumption that hearing loss is an inevitable part of aging. Research has consistently […]
Continue reading6 Daily Habits for People with Hearing Loss
Here are my six suggested daily habits to manage hearing loss: Eat healthfully. Research has found a Mediterranean diet to be beneficial for ear health. Express appreciation to people in your life who support your communication needs. Exercise regularly– your ears will thank you when your blood sugar and blood pressure levels are as close […]
Continue readingTension reliever for people with hearing loss
People with hearing loss (PWHL) have to deal with a great deal of ambiguity in communication. At times, the ambiguity and listening effort can be stressful. I think tension relievers are really important for PWHL. Below is a short video from Huberman Lab, about one of my favourite tension relievers. It’s called the physiological sigh. […]
Continue readingSound provides information that helps you with balancing yourself
Research examined how sounds affects a person’s ability to keep their balance while standing still, with their eyes closed and when standing on a pliable, squishy surface. They also looked at how wearing noise-canceling headphones (a complete lack of sound) affected balance. They found that people had more difficulty staying balanced or standing still on […]
Continue readingAreas of interest for hearing improvement
Choose an area of interest to explore ways to improve your hearing