New Partnerships with Lifestyle Communities
Victorian Hearing is excited to announce a new partnership with Lifestyle Communities, a cohort of like-minded retired, semi-retired and working downsizers that live in purpose-built facilities that champion independence, inspiration and inclusion. The very values of Lifestyle Communities being ‘business for purpose’ rather than a ‘purpose for business’, align with Victorian Hearing’s own values of being client focused and independent. This partnership evolved naturally given our mutual focus, to be socially, morally and ethically responsible in all ways.
Our audiologists Sandra, Mina, Nicole, Liz and Sally prepare Healthy Hearing presentations, conduct hearing screenings and wax removal services to these communities all around Victoria. The importance of access to hearing health care and understanding how vital one’s hearing is motivates us to reach and teach the community.
Below are five important healthy hearing reminders for us all.
1. Our ears and brain work together to hear well.
Our ears are incredible organs that allow us to hear the sounds around us. As early as 18-20 weeks of gestation in the uterus, our hearing organ, the cochlear is functional and we hear our first sounds in our mother’s womb. They consist of three main parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. The outer ear collects sound waves and funnels them into the ear canal, where they reach the eardrum in the middle ear. The eardrum then vibrates, transmitting these vibrations to the tiny bones (ossicles) in the middle ear, which amplify the sound. These amplified vibrations travel to the fluid-filled cochlea in the inner ear, which contains thousands of hair cells and sensory neurons. When the amplified sound vibrations reach the cochlea, they cause the hair cells to move, which in turn generates electrical signals. These signals are then sent to the brain via the auditory nerve, where they are interpreted as sound. It’s like a complex orchestra where every element works harmoniously to deliver the gift of sound to our consciousness.
Our ear is like the highway to our brain! Therefore, a stimulated ear is a stimulated brain. It is important to keep our brain fit by allowing it to hear as best as it can.
2. Hearing loss is common. You aren’t alone.
The population data from the Government Department of Health and Age Care, have collected the statistics to show that in Australia about 3.6 million people have a degree of hearing loss. What is staggering is that more than 1.3 million people who live with hearing loss have a preventable hearing condition.
It is estimated that by 2050, one in four Australians will have a hearing loss. There are many factors that can cause hearing loss of which the common factors include age, exposure to loud noise, untreated ear disease and genetics. Regarding age related hearing loss, the trend is that it does increase with age. About half of individuals aged between 60 to 70 will experience hearing difficulties, up to 70% of those aged 70 and over, and 80% of those aged 80 and over.
3. Hearing is associated with other chronic health conditions
Our ears have connections with many other health factors that can be pivotal in maintaining a vibrant and healthy lifestyle. Two such factors are cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
The inner ear’s delicate blood supply can be affected by the same risk factors that contribute to cardiovascular diseases, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, reduced blood flow to the inner ear can damage the sensitive hair cells responsible for hearing, leading to hearing loss. Whilst diabetes can impair the blood vessels and nerves in the inner ear, causing hearing loss. Moreover, individuals with diabetes are more prone to developing hearing impairment compared to those without the condition.
Not only can hearing and physical conditions be associated, hearing can also affect our mental health. When we cannot hear well, the risk of depression and social isolation increases. When we cannot hear our environment, friends and family, we are more likely to withdraw from social settings, and thus have feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression, ultimately affecting their overall well-being.
4. Hearing aids can assist up to 90-95% of individuals who have hearing loss
If a hearing test indicates hearing loss, don’t worry! Modern hearing aids have come a long way and offer sophisticated technology to enhance your hearing experience discreetly and comfortably. From advanced noise-canceling features to smartphone connectivity and rechargeability, these devices can make a world of difference in your day-to-day interactions.
At Victorian Hearing we are an independent local audiology practice. This means we are not affiliated with any hearing aid manufacturer, allowing our university-trained audiologists to provide the most appropriate brand of hearing aid and accessories to suit your unique lifestyle needs. None of our staff have commissions. We pride ourselves on ethical and quality care.
5. Don’t wait to get your hearing tested
Getting your hearing tested is a proactive step towards maintaining a fulfilling and engaged life. Regular hearing tests can help you stay connected with friends and family, enjoy social activities, and communicate effectively at work or during leisure activities. Remember, your ears and hearing system are extraordinary gifts that enable you to experience the beautiful symphony of life. By taking the initiative to get your hearing tested, you are investing in your well-being and ensuring that you can enjoy every precious moment with clarity and joy. Embrace the journey to rediscover the world of sound and let the melody of life play on! We recommend an annual hearing test for the whole family.
If you or someone close to you is experiencing changes in hearing, reach out to the team at Victorian Hearing your local, independent, and Australian owned and operated hearing clinic. With ten clinics across Melbourne, you are sure to find a friendly smile and support from the Victorian Hearing team. Call (03) 9558 8842 or book online.