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May 10, 2023Better Hearing and Speech Month 2023
Each May since 1927, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has been promoting Better Hearing and Speech Month. This serves as a time to increase awareness about hearing and speech challenges. It also encourages people to think about their own hearing experiences. This year, the theme is “Building a Strong Foundation.”
Our ability to communicate is crucial to our overall well-being. It is also part of our health foundation. By treating hearing loss and protecting our hearing, we can ensure effective communication. As we celebrate Better Speech and Hearing Month, let’s take proactive measures toward improving our hearing health.
The Impact of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to communicate effectively. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 430 million people worldwide have disabling hearing loss. Each year, it increases. By 2050, it is projected that at least 2.5 billion people will be living with some degree of hearing loss.
“By 2050, it is projected that at least 2.5 billion people will be living with some degree of hearing loss.”
Hearing loss can affect people of all ages, including children. Early detection is critical in preventing the negative consequences of hearing loss. With hearing loss on the rise, the American Academy of Audiology encourages everyone to get their hearing checked.
By increasing awareness and understanding hearing and speech disorders, people are more likely to seek out help and support. Hearing screenings can help identify both hearing and speech challenges. They can also determine the degree of impact it has on the individual. People who are exposed to noise regularly or work in construction environments should take additional precautions to proactively protect their hearing.
Be Proactive
Healthy hearing means proactively checking your hearing instead of waiting until the hearing loss is so significant that it impacts your way of life. Subtle changes in hearing may not be immediately noticeable. But they make a big difference in quality of life.
An audiologist can check your hearing by testing sounds and speech. Based on your hearing results, the audiologist may then make recommendations for improving hearing health. They also may offer tips for protecting your hearing. By having a strong foundation of an audiologist, ENT, and other crucial components of your support network, you are your best advocate.
Hearing is what connects us to the people in our lives. As we age, those social connections become increasingly important to our well-being. They provide a sense of belonging, support, and purpose. We may face challenges that can affect our hearing ability. Ignoring these challenges can make it difficult to engage in conversations, understand instructions, or participate in social activities. Without meaningful social connections, we may experience a decline in our mental and physical health.Therefore, it is essential to prioritize our hearing health.
Read more: A guide for your next audiology appointment
Take Action
From hearing and speech professionals to celebrities, each of us has something to contribute to Better Hearing and Speech Month and beyond. Some things you can do include:
- Celebrate individual achievements of those who have overcome communication disorders
- Educate and provide guidance to those who have hearing or speech challenges
- Share stories from the professional’s perspective and those who work tirelessly every day to lessen hearing and speech difficulties
