Hearing loss is a widespread issue affecting around 15% of adults in the U.S.—that’s roughly 40 million people. The severity can vary quite a bit, and the causes are numerous.
One major type is presbycusis, which is age-related hearing loss. This gradual decline is often due to natural changes in the body, including neural pathways linked to the inner ear and brain. Interestingly, hearing issues can start to surface as early as your 30s or 40s, and they usually worsen as time goes on.
Various factors, including ear infections, head injuries, some medications, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and autoimmune diseases, can also contribute to hearing difficulties.
A straightforward way to minimize hearing loss is to limit exposure to loud noises. Such sounds can damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear, leading to potential impairment.
“New York is notoriously loud, so using hearing protection in daily life is crucial,” says an audiologist at Manhattan Audio South. “When commuting via subway or train, or even just strolling around Manhattan, using active noise cancellation can really help protect your hearing.”
Even small choices, like where to sit in public, can significantly influence your noise exposure. This audiologist has pinpointed ideal seating to help reduce the risk of hearing loss.
Best Restaurant Seats
You probably already know that seats near the bar, restrooms, or entrances tend to be the loudest and can complicate conversation.
Although corner seats seem appealing, the audiologist suggests sitting across from the corner instead.
“If you sit with your back to the crowds at other tables, it acts as a natural noise barrier, allowing you to focus on your companions,” the expert explained.
Transport Tips
In terms of air travel, first class is ideal for hearing quality.
“It’s best to sit closer to the cockpit, away from the engine noise, and steer clear of busy areas like bathrooms if you’re in economy class,” the audiologist notes.
When on a train, aim for a quiet car, but if that’s not an option, distance yourself from doors and restrooms.
On a bus, you should sit towards the back near the driver to reduce distraction from automated announcements.
Identifying Hearing Loss
Often, friends and family are the first to notice when hearing is declining.
“The most frequently affected frequencies are high ones. It’s not that you can’t hear sounds, but rather that you struggle to discern clarity,” the expert mentioned. “You might catch most sounds but misinterpret many words.”
Your brain might be oblivious to errors, but loved ones usually pick up on them.
If your family hasn’t said anything, consider your TV habits.
Constantly cranking up the volume might indicate an issue.
“Clarity and volume are not the same. Just because you’re making it louder doesn’t mean it’s clearer,” the audiologist explained.
If you’re increasing the volume hoping for better understanding, that could be a sign to seek a thorough evaluation.
What to Do About Suspected Hearing Loss
An evaluation is recommended to assess how well your ears and eardrums are functioning and determine hearing intensity and clarity in different environments.
If there’s a problem, experts will figure out if it’s something that can be corrected or if it’s permanent.
“A complete assessment can make a tremendous difference in a person’s quality of life almost immediately,” the audiologist remarked.
Technology to Improve Hearing
After the hearing evaluation, an audiologist may suggest a hearing aid tailored to your needs.
For those with mild to moderate loss, there are commercial hearing aids available too.
Interestingly, devices like Apple AirPods Pro 2 are considered a “good starting point” for those exploring options before committing fully to medical-grade aids.
“The advancements in hearing aids today are remarkable compared to those from the past,” the expert noted. “If that means starting with over-the-counter options, that’s perfectly fine.”
If you opt for a prescription device, the improvements might surprise you. Modern hearing aids, like the Resound Vivia, can stream sound directly from events, creating an immersive listening experience without the usual background noise.
