As the new year begins, many of us set resolutions to improve our overall health. But how often do we consider our sense of hearing – directly impacting both mental and physical health? Hearing is an essential part of how we connect with each other and the world. This year, make your hearing health a priority by setting actionable goals to support long-term vitality. Here are some tips to care for your hearing health:

1. Schedule a Hearing Test

If you’ve never had your hearing checked or if it’s been a while, start the year by scheduling an appointment with a licensed hearing care professional. Regular hearing tests are vital, especially if you’re over 60 or have been exposed to loud environments through work or hobbies. Early detection of hearing loss can significantly improve your quality of life.

2. Protect Your Ears

Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable. Commit to protecting your ears by using earplugs at concerts or sporting events, while using power tools, or in other noisy environments. There are many ways to prepare for noise. You can download a decibel (dB) meter app (such as the NIOSH Sound Level Meter App) to your smart phone and assess how loud your environment is. If levels are consistently above 85dB, put in earplugs or move farther away from the source of the noise. If you’re a regular attendee of concerts or sporting events, investing in custom-fit earplugs can be a wise move toward preserving your hearing.

3. Practice Safe Listening

With increased access to and ownership of personal audio devices, it’s important to monitor how long and how loud you listen. An easy tip to remember is the 60/60 rule: keep the volume below 60% and listen for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Give yourself regular breaks from audio to avoid damage to fragile parts of your inner ear.

4. Stay Informed

Educate yourself about the signs of hearing loss, such as frequently asking people to repeat themselves, difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments, or ringing in your ears (tinnitus). Being aware of these symptoms can help you seek help sooner. Myths and facts about hearing health can be found here.

5. Encourage Loved Ones

Hearing health isn’t just a personal journey; it’s a family affair. Encourage loved ones to prioritize their hearing, especially older family members who may be reluctant to seek help. Offer to go with them to a hearing test or even utilize an online hearing screening to begin the journey toward better hearing.

6. Care for Your Hearing Technology

If you have or plan to get hearing aids, be sure to utilize the accessories and services that you purchase. Most hearing aids will come with a cleaning kit and instructions to best care for your devices. Be sure to carefully read and follow the instructions to ensure your technology has a long lifespan. Especially if you live in hot or humid environments, bringing your hearing aids to your hearing care professional for an annual cleaning is a good idea. Discuss how often this should be done when you purchase your hearing aids.

Setting hearing health goals doesn’t have to be complicated, and steps this easy can lead to lasting health benefits. By prioritizing your hearing this year, you’re investing in your ability to communicate, enjoy your favorite sounds, and maintain your overall quality of life. Let 2025 be the year you protect your vital sense of hearing and get back to hearing at your best!