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World Hearing Day (March 3rd), is a day that reinforces the need for everyone to look after their hearing health. While early intervention and prevention can reduce the risk of hearing loss, the worrying news is that it’s on the rise, with a projected 2.5 billion people worldwide to suffer from hearing loss by 2050.
Hidden Hearing ambassadors Úna Walsh, former Irish rugby player Tony Ward and neuroscientist and author Dr. Sabina Brennan are urging Irish people of all ages to Love Their Ears and stop taking hearing for granted.
Gifted musician, Úna Walsh who wowed millions of Late Late Toy Show viewers in 2021, was ten when she was diagnosed with moderate to severe hearing loss and more than likely had hearing loss since birth.
“I’m delighted to be part of this worthy campaign to urge people young and old to love their ears,” said Hidden Hearing Ambassador Úna. “I cannot put into words how much my Bluetooth hearing aid has changed my life. I feel so much more included in everyday things that others may take for granted.”
Former Irish Rugby Player Tony Ward believes his hearing loss was heightened by head injuries.
"I have over 70% hearing loss and without hearing aids I would have a really difficult quality of life. My life would be very different if I ignored my hearing loss. I’m asking Irish people to Love Your Ears and keep your hearing health as a priority as I believe it ensures an enhanced, healthier life.”
It’s worth having your hearing checked regularly as hearing loss can be linked to other diseases.
Neuroscientist and author Dr Sabina Brennan said: “Hearing loss increases your risk of developing dementia. That’s why I would advise people to follow the recommendation of the Dementia, Prevention and Care Report of the Lancet Commission which encourages the use of hearing aids for hearing loss and advocates the protection of ears from excessive noise exposure.”
Hidden Hearing is highlighting the importance of integrating ear and hearing care within primary care as ear and hearing problems are the two most common problems encountered in the community.
A study on behalf of Hidden Hearing also revealed that treating hearing loss has benefits for mental health, relationships and even happiness.
- For those with hearing loss, hearing aid wearers in Ireland are almost 3 times happier (43%) than those with untreated hearing loss (15%).
- 25 % of hearing aid wearers here report having better relationships, and they are twice as likely to report improved mental health too.
- 1 in 4 people globally will be living with hearing loss by 2050, and as many as one third of those people will live with it untreated.
“The ability to hear is a gift and a gift that is often unappreciated. Healthy hearing allows us to interact with loved ones, to learn, to socialise and to experience the world at its best,” said Dolores Madden Audiologist and Marketing Director with Hidden Hearing.
“At Hidden Hearing we are urging Irish people be kinder to their ears, because it simply reduces their risk of hearing loss. Our aim is to give patients at every age the unique treatment they need to ensure they can still reach their full potential.”
Top Tips to Love Your Ears:
- Turn down headphones
- Where ear protection when needed
- Get tested regularly
- Wear hearing aids to protect against hearing loss
If you would like to get to know your ears better, discuss your concerns, and stay on top of any hearing changes, book a consultation with one of our experts at our local hearing care clinic. We offer a complimentary hearing test and risk-free hearing aid trial if you want to see which hearing aids could be right for you.
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