Tips for enjoying summer while protecting your hearing
Summer opens up many possibilities for outdoor activities, but they can put your hearing health at risk. Our partners at Amplifon have provided tips on protecting your family's hearing health while enjoying all your favorite activities.
How loud is too loud?
Did you know that even a simple walk around your neighborhood can put you at risk for long-term hearing damage? Our outdoor environments can be surprisingly loud, with noise from roaring lawnmowers, construction vehicles, equipment, and emergency vehicles with blaring sirens.
Sound intensity, measured in decibels (dB), gives us a scale to understand this better. For example, everyday conversation typically measures around 60 dB, while a live music performance can range from 100-115 dB.
It’s not just about the loudness though. Even regular exposure to sounds as low as 85 dB can lead to hearing loss if you're exposed for more than 8 hours a day. Research shows that noticeable hearing loss can occur after 10 years or more of such exposure.
Whether it's the sudden, intense noise of a gunshot or firework or the quieter, constant sounds over many years, it's crucial to wear hearing protection. This simple step can prevent permanent damage and protect your hearing health.
Ways to protect your ears from loud noises
We never want you to miss out on your favorite outdoor hobbies or sounds. However, it's important to be aware of their impact on your hearing health and find ways to reduce noise-induced hearing loss. Protecting your hearing is crucial for your long-term health and wellness.
Here are a few ways to protect your hearing without compromising your summer fun:
Take breaks
Schedule some quiet time between your outdoor activities to give your ears a break from loud noises.
Wear passive hearing protection
Earplugs or earmuffs can be conventional or custom-made. With many options available, it's easy to find one that best suits your activity level and personal preference. Properly fitted earplugs or earmuffs can reduce noise by 15 to 30 dB, lowering your exposure to harmful noise levels. As you pack your gear, make hearing protection part of your equipment checklist.
Stay mindful of your surroundings
Smartphones and smartwatches can be incredibly useful in helping us stay aware of exposure to harmful outdoor noises. Many smart devices have built-in noise-level monitoring features that can alert you when you're being exposed to noise pollution. This is particularly useful when going for a walk outdoors or meeting friends at a restaurant, where you might not realize you're at risk.
By using this technology, you can be notified when noise levels exceed safe thresholds, allowing you to take necessary precautions such as using ear protection or removing yourself from the environment. Additionally, some devices can track the noise levels you are exposed to on a regular basis, providing valuable data that can help you take steps to protect your hearing in the long term.
Try active hearing protection
Active hearing protection devices use electronic technology to enhance hearing while also protecting you from loud noises. These devices typically contain microphones and speakers that allow you to hear ambient sounds safely while automatically reducing the volume when loud noises are detected.
Active hearing protection is particularly beneficial in environments where communication and situational awareness are essential, such as shooting ranges, industrial settings, and construction sites. By investing in these advanced devices, you can protect your hearing without sacrificing your ability to stay alert and communicate effectively.
Does noise canceling protect hearing?
When used properly, noise-canceling earbuds or headphones can help protect your hearing by reducing the need to turn up the volume to overcome external noise. This is especially beneficial in environments with high background noise as it allows you to listen to audio at a lower, safer volume while still enjoying clear sound quality. However, it's important to note that noise-canceling technology does not protect your hearing from loud and damaging environmental noise.
There are many ways to protect your ears from loud noises, especially during the summer. Along with the tips mentioned, schedule regular appointments with a hearing care provider. At Union Plus, we value the health of all our union members and their families. Regular evaluations can identify hearing health issues early, ensuring proper treatment to avoid further damage and protect your overall wellness.
*Based on internal 2022 MSRP analysis. Your savings may vary.