The rule of thumb is simple: the louder the sound, the shorter the safe listening window.
health
The surprisingly loud sounds in everyday life
So how loud is too loud? Van Kerkhof explains:“ For noise exposure,‘ too loud’ is generally considered anything at or above 85 decibels( dB) when experienced for a prolonged period or through repeated exposure. At this level, both temporary and permanent hearing loss can occur, depending on the duration.”
Sounds at or below 70dB, she adds, are considered safe even with long exposure times. The rule of thumb is simple: the louder the sound, the shorter the safe listening window.
If you’ ve ever asked a child to turn down their headphones only to get a blank stare, you’ re not alone. But small habits can go a long way. Van Kerkhof recommends:
•“ Listen at no more than 60 % of maximum volume for no longer than 60 minutes at a time.”
•“ Use noise-cancelling headphones to avoid turning the volume up in noisy environments.”
•“ Take regular breaks to give your ears time to rest.”
•“ Use over-ear headphones rather than earbuds whenever possible.”
These simple adjustments can protect young ears while still letting them enjoy their music, videos, or games.
Heading somewhere loud as a family? Pack more than snacks.“ The best way to protect your hearing in these noisy environments is to use custom-made hearing protection devices,” Van Kerkhof advises. They fit well, last longer, and offer far better protection than foam plugs.
Early signs you shouldn’ t ignore
Do children and adults lose hearing differently? Yes.“ The main differences are in the cause,
www. babysandbeyond. co. za progression and the specific frequencies affected,” Van Kerkhof explains. Agerelated changes are common in older adults, while younger people are more likely to be affected by noise exposure or medical conditions.
Leaving hearing problems untreated can take a toll – emotionally and cognitively.“ Untreated hearing loss has been shown to negatively impact overall health by accelerating cognitive decline,” she notes. When the brain receives less sound input, it works harder to interpret speech and gradually deteriorates. Socially, people may withdraw, leading to loneliness, anxiety and depression.
Hearing loss often creeps in quietly. Watch for:“ Difficulty hearing in noisy environments or group conversations, turning up the TV volume, ringing or buzzing in the ears, and difficulty hearing on the phone.”
Tech that’ s changing the game
If family members start saying you“ misheard” them, or you find yourself constantly re-reading subtitles, it may be time for a hearing check.
How often should hearing be tested? Van Kerkhof keeps it simple:“ Annual hearing tests are recommended for everyone in order to monitor hearing thresholds and identify hearing loss as soon as possible.”
Think of it like a vision check, but for your ears.
The rule of thumb is simple: the louder the sound, the shorter the safe listening window.
Today’ s hearing aids and assistive devices are a far cry from the bulky gadgets of the past.“ The most promising advances in hearing aids and assistive technology today involve the integration of artificial intelligence( AI), enhanced wireless connectivity and the incorporation of health and wellness monitoring features,” says Van Kerkhof.
Many people hesitate to admit they’ re having trouble hearing. Van Kerkhof says the best approach is gentle encouragement.
“ Family members need to address the issue with patience, empathy and honest communication,” she explains.“ We find that focusing on the way in which quality of life can be improved can help individuals feel more open to getting their hearing tested, and possibly getting hearing aids.” �
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