better speech and hearing month at Universal Audiology

Better Hearing & Speech Month

Your hearing is an integral part of your overall health and well-being. During the month of May, the American Speech-Language Hearing Association raises awareness about hearing and communication by celebrating Better Hearing and Speech Month (BHSM).

What’s the Theme for 2022?

The theme for BHSM for 2022 is, “Connecting People.” Hearing and communication are both key ways we experience the world and connect with people. Without our hearing, it’s difficult to communicate with family, laugh with friends, and collaborate with coworkers.

In honor of Better Hearing and Speech Month, discover some ways you can raise awareness for hearing and communication disorders while taking care of your own health!

How to Participate in BHSM

  • Wear hearing protection
  • Schedule annual hearing exams
  • Educate yourself
  • Spread awareness

A key way to celebrate Better Hearing and Speech Month is by taking care of your own hearing health. An integral way to do this is by wearing hearing protection whenever you are exposed to loud noises and to schedule annua hearing exams.

Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common type of hearing loss in individuals of all ages. Any sound over 85 decibels can be detrimental to your hearing. Although sounds between 85-100 decibels may not seem dangerously loud, over time exposure to this range of sound can lead to hearing loss. Impulse sounds over 100 decibels can cause damage to your hearing when only exposed to them one time. The best way to prevent noise-induced hearing loss is to wear hearing protection, such as earplugs.

You should also schedule annual hearing exams. If you have hearing loss, it is important to come in every year so we can check that your hearing has not changed. Just as you visit a dentist or physician every year, you should come in for hearing evaluations on an annual basis.

Educate Yourself and Spread Awareness

There is a lot to learn about hearing loss and communication disorders. Educating yourself on the causes and effects of hearing loss will help you spread awareness and protect yourself from developing hearing loss in the future.

If you are interested in learning more about hearing loss or how you can spread awareness, visit www.asha.org to learn more

Start Being Proactive

Be proactive this Better Hearing and Speech Month by taking care of your hearing health. Contact us today to schedule your hearing exam so you can do your part this May!