We are all experiencing some type of isolation at this time. It is difficult not to socialize and to distance ourselves from others. We as humans are social beings and want to be among others. I’ve never been so excited to see what’s in my mailbox when I hear the mail carrier! This reminds me of an article that I read a few weeks ago. It talks about the importance of hearing well and how it affects our overall well-being.
Hearing is one of our 5 senses. It is a social sense. By this I mean hearing allows us to communicate with others and connect with them.
Hearing is an emotional sense. Hearing allows us to hear our loved ones’ voices, music, in social gatherings, at prayer services, and more. Hearing allows us to perceive other’s emotions.
Hearing gives a sense of security. When we hear well, we are aware of sounds around us. Hearing sounds in our environment keeps us connected to the world around us. For example, when you hear your garage door open, you know one of your loved ones is home.
Hearing well the first time you hear something helps you remember and understand what was said. You spend less brain power trying to figure out the message and have more brain power to remember what was said.
As hearing care providers, we play an important role in improving people’s hearing. We look at the individual, the family, and use a family-centered care approach to improve hearing. We use amplification, hearing technology, assistive devices, and communication strategies. And we remember the positive impact well-hearing plays in our lives.
Please take care, stay safe, and know we are always here for you.
Reference: Vercammen, Charlotte, PhD (Well-Hearing is Well Being), Hearing Review, March 2020, 10-16