HEARING HEALTH TIPS

Your Hearing, Our Care

Your hearing is one of your most important senses — and one of the most overlooked when it comes to everyday health habits. The good news is that a few simple, consistent practices can protect your hearing for life. Here is what our Registered Audiologist recommends for residents across the Lower Mainland, BC and beyond.

Volume & The 60/60 Rule

Prevention

Protecting your hearing starts with managing volume. High intensity sound waves can permanently damage the delicate hair cells in your inner ear.

Do

  • Follow the 60/60 rule: 60% volume for 60 mins.
  • Give your ears "quiet breaks" after loud events.

Don't

  • Use headphones at max volume.
  • Ignore ringing in your ears after noise exposure.

Physical Ear Protection

Safety

Whether at a concert or using power tools, physical barriers are your best defense against Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL).

Do

  • Wear earplugs in loud environments.
  • Keep ears dry after swimming to prevent infection.

Don't

  • Use cotton swabs or objects inside the canal.
  • Stand directly next to speakers at events.

Lifestyle & Circulation

General Health

Hearing health is closely linked to cardiovascular health. Good blood flow is essential for the inner ear to function properly.

Do

  • Exercise regularly to maintain good circulation.
  • Eat a diet rich in vitamins like B12 and Zinc.

Don't

  • Smoke: it restricts blood flow to the ears.
  • Ignore high blood pressure or diabetes.

Effective Communication

Interaction

For those already experiencing hearing challenges, how you communicate can reduce frustration and fatigue for everyone involved.

Do

  • Face the person directly in good lighting.
  • Rephrase instead of just repeating louder.

Don't

  • Talk from another room or while looking away.
  • Shout, as it distorts sound and lip cues.

Early Warning Signs

Action

Hearing loss is often gradual. Being proactive and monitoring changes is the best way to preserve your quality of life.

Do

  • Schedule an annual baseline hearing test.
  • Be aware of "muffled" speech or ringing.

Don't

  • Wait until you can't hear at all to see a pro.
  • Assume hearing loss is "just part of aging."

When did you last have your hearing checked?

Book a Hearing Assessment with our Registered Audiologist.