The Hearing Blog

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Your 60s and Beyond: What to Expect with Hearing Health and Aging

Whether we want it or not, aging occurs, which is better than the alternative. The process of aging is noted by resilience, wisdom, and hopefully a few new, fun chapters as life gets easier. Some people look forward to a quiet retirement, while others want to travel the world or just spend time with friends and loved ones. Making it…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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How Hearing Experts Help Older Adults Stay Connected

As people get older, hearing loss becomes more likely. Around one in three adults between the ages of 65 and 74 has some form of hearing loss. That number rises to nearly half for those who are over 75, according to the NIH.  Hearing problems can affect so much more than the ears; they can affect memory, safety, mood, and…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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Helpful Ways to Communicate with Someone Who Has Hearing Loss

When someone has hearing loss, even everyday conversations can become extremely frustrating or confusing, on both sides. Misunderstandings, repeated questions, or loud environments can isolate those with hearing loss. The good news is that you can help make conversations clearer, more comfortable, and more inclusive with just a few adjustments. Good communication always starts with awareness and empathy. It is…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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Why Raising Awareness About Hearing Loss Matters

Hearing loss gets little attention, and unlike more obvious conditions, it’s easily overlooked. Many dismiss it as part of aging or something minor. Undiagnosed or untreated hearing loss can impact the ears and alter how people interact with the world, communicate with loved ones, and view themselves. Awareness goes beyond reminding individuals to get their hearing examined. It’s about educating…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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How to Know If It’s Time to Get Hearing Aids

Some moments carry more weight than others. Moments like asking people to repeat themselves, feeling lost during a group conversation, or watching TV at a volume that others find too loud can feel small at first. But over time, they can add up. Hearing loss often shows itself in everyday settings before it becomes obvious.  That’s why knowing the early…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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Why Hearing Protection Matters for Musicians and Concert-Goers

There’s nothing quite like the energy of live music. But that same thrill can come with a price. Whether you’re standing near the stage at a packed concert or playing an instrument during a loud rehearsal, the sound can quickly reach harmful levels. Noise levels at concerts and practice spaces can even reach levels that put long-term hearing at risk.…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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How Managing Stress Can Benefit Hearing Health

The body can react to stress in various types of surprising ways. It can cause headaches, gastrointestinal issues, tense muscles, and even affect the operation of the ears. Although most individuals don’t connect stress and hearing right away, the two are intimately related. Prolonged stress can alter blood flow, raise inflammation, and interfere with the brain’s ability to perceive sound.…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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How Does Stress Affect Hearing?

Stress impacts nearly every system in the human body, but many people remain unaware of its effects on hearing health. Research shows a clear connection between high stress levels and various hearing issues. When the body stays in a prolonged state of stress, it triggers physical changes that can affect the inner ear. Chronic stress can alter how sound is…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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Common Challenges for First-Time Hearing Aid Users

Adapting to hearing aids takes time and patience. Many people experience a mixture of emotions when first using these devices, from relief at improved hearing to frustration with unexpected hurdles. Understanding what to expect makes the transition smoother. The path to better hearing includes several common challenges that most new users face. With the right approach and support, these obstacles…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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How Hearing Loss Affects Driving and Transportation Safety

Hearing plays a key role in our awareness while navigating roads and public spaces. For the 48 million Americans with some degree of hearing loss, daily transportation presents unique challenges that many people with normal hearing might not consider. These challenges range from difficulty hearing emergency sirens to missing important announcements on public transit systems. Understanding these impacts is the…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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When to See a Hearing Health Professional for a Hearing Check

Have you noticed conversations seem muffled lately, or you’re constantly asking people to repeat themselves? These subtle changes are early warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Finding yourself turning up device volumes or struggling to hear in noisy environments indicates declining hearing health. Family members often notice changes before you do. They might mention you’re not responding when called or…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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Virtual Support Groups for People with Hearing Loss

Hearing loss often brings about emotional challenges that can feel overwhelming. The journey toward adapting and thriving with hearing loss can seem isolating. However, virtual support groups provide comfort, understanding, and community, making it easier to cope and stay connected with peers who truly understand. Adapting to hearing loss is not just a physical change; it affects emotional well-being too.…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

Featured image for “Understanding the Anatomy of the Ear”

Understanding the Anatomy of the Ear

The human ear is a marvel of biological engineering, designed to capture sounds from the environment and process them into signals our brain can understand. The ear consists of three main parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. Each part plays a significant role in hearing and balance, working together seamlessly to allow us to experience…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

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Tips For Improving Your Hearing Experience

Some conversations feel effortless, while others demand extra focus. Background noise, muffled speech, or even fatigue can make listening a challenge, but small adjustments can make a big difference, enhancing sound clarity and reducing frustration. Hearing well is not only about volume. It also involves processing sounds accurately and distinguishing speech from noise. With the right strategies, daily interactions can…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA

Featured image for “Finding the Perfect Hearing Aids”

Finding the Perfect Hearing Aids

While silence can have its benefits, it can also make conversations feel like unsolved equations. Struggling to hear friends, family, or even the punchline of a joke can be frustrating, but the right hearing aids can restore clarity, comfort, and confidence in everyday interactions. With so many options available, choosing the best fit can feel overwhelming. There are advanced technology,…

Matthew Favinger, M.S., F-AAA