Protect Your Hearing All Summer Long

June is here!!  At Sonotone Hearing Aid Centers, we want to make sure you protect your hearing all summer long during summer events!  Summer is a season of joy, adventure, and celebration. However, it can also bring challenges to your hearing health, especially when you find yourself in loud environments or engaging in activities that may compromise ear safety. To ensure you enjoy all the summer fun without risking your hearing, here’s a detailed breakdown of how to protect your ears effectively:

1. Limit Exposure to Loud Noises
   Avoid Noisy Environments:

• When planning outings, choose locations that are less prone to high sound levels. Avoid concerts, fireworks, and crowded places like festivals or construction sites if possible.
• Move Away from Noise Sources: If you must be in a loud environment, try to position yourself further away from the source of the sound. For instance, moving back from the speakers at a concert can significantly reduce noise exposure.

2. Use Hearing Protection
   Wear Earplugs:

• Earplugs are a readily accessible way to protect your hearing. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) recommends them at concerts and other noisy events.
• Choose the Right Type of Earplugs: We would most likely suggest Musician’s Earplugs which are designed for comfort and sound quality, they reduce volume without distorting music, making them ideal for concerts.
• Consider Hearing Protection Devices: For Regular Exposure when you frequently find yourself in loud situations, consider professional-grade earmuffs or custom-fit hearing protection options for long-term use.

We offer many varieties of ear plugs at Sonotone Hearing Aid Centers.  Stop in or call either location & let us help you with this.

2. Take Breaks from Noise
Step Out of Noisy Environments

• Give Your Ears a Rest: Periodically retreat from loud environments. Even a few minutes away from the noise can help your ears recuperate.
• Take Breaks from Headphone Use: Avoid Prolonged Listening: If you enjoy listening to music with headphones, take regular breaks. This practice can reduce the risk of hearing damage associated with long exposure.

4. Maintain Safe Listening Levels
   Turn Down the Volume:

• Be Mindful of Headphone Volume: Avoid cranking up the volume, especially when wearing headphones or earbuds. Keeping the volume at a moderate level protects your hearing from long-term damage.
• Healthy Listening: The 60/60 rule recommends listening to music at 60% of the maximum volume for no longer than 60 minutes, followed by a break. This helps prevent overexposure to high decibel levels.

  Use a Volume Meter:

• Monitor Noise Levels: Many smartphones and devices come with built-in volume meters that help you monitor and maintain safe listening levels. Take advantage of these tools!

5. Keep Your Ears Dry
   Dry Your Ears After Swimming:

•  Prevent Water Buildup: After swimming, gently dry your ears with a clean towel to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to infections.
•  Dry Hearing Aids Overnight: Avoid Moisture Issues: If you wear hearing aids, use a hearing aid dehumidifier or place them in a dry, cool area overnight. This practice prevents dampness, which could affect their performance and longevity. We have several different types of hearing aid dryers at Sonotone Hearing Aid Centers.  Let us show you what we think would be best for your aids.

Protecting your hearing during the summer months is vital for enjoying all the activities that the season brings. By limiting your exposure to loud noises, using appropriate hearing protection, taking breaks, maintaining safe listening levels, and keeping your ears dry, you can safeguard your hearing health while fully embracing summer fun.

If you have concerns about your hearing or would like tailored advice and professional recommendations, consider reaching out to us at Sonotone Hearing Aid Centers. We have been around for over 33 years, and we strive for our customer’s satisfaction!

Enjoy your summer adventures while keeping your hearing safe and sound! 🌞🎶💧