Sound advice for healthy hearing

In World Hearing Week, a Moreton Bay audiologist has reminded residents “hearing health is about far more than simply detecting sound”.

Erin Seamer, Audiologist/Director of Hearing Help at Newport, says hearing “plays a vital role in cognitive function, emotional wellbeing and ability to stay connected with others”.

“Hearing changes often occur gradually,” she said.

“You might notice the television creeping louder, difficulty following conversations in noisy places, frequently asking others to repeat themselves, or feeling that people are “mumbling.”

“These can be early signs of hearing loss.”

Hearing Awareness Week (March 1-7) encourages early action. If you are over 65 or noticing changes in your hearing, an annual assessment is important.

The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care says around one-in-six  Australians experience some degree of hearing difficulty.

Prevalence increases significantly with age, affecting around half of those aged 60–70, 70 per cent of people over 70, and 80 per cent of those over 80.

However, hearing loss is not limited to older adults. Ongoing noise exposure, genetics, certain medical conditions and some medications can all contribute.

“Hearing - particularly understanding speech - is a complex brain process,” Erin said. “While the ears detect sound, the brain interprets and assigns meaning.

“When hearing declines, the brain must work harder to fill in missing information.

“This increased listening effort, known as cognitive load, can lead to fatigue, reduced concentration, and difficulty retaining information.

“Over time, people may begin to withdraw socially, avoiding challenging listening environments or simply sitting back from conversations.

“Yet social connection is one of the strongest protective factors for mental and cognitive health.”

Research continues to highlight the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline.

The 2020 report from The Lancet Commission identified hearing loss as one of the largest potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia in midlife.

“While hearing loss does not directly cause dementia, unmanaged hearing difficulties may contribute through increased cognitive strain, reduced brain stimulation and social isolation,” Erin said.

Hearing Help is a local, independent audiology practice supporting patients from age three and above.

Access to hearing services may be rebated or fully subsidised for eligible individuals.