It has become a common sight to see people from children to adults listening to headphones and ear buds out in public. The number of people listening to music through headphones increased by 75% from 1990 to 2005. 36 million American adults report some degree of hearing loss and we are seeing hearing losses more and more in children. 1 in 5 kids ages 12-19 are suffering from a hearing loss. Teenagers and young adults are being exposed to unsafe levels of sound from the use of personal audio devices. Parents need to be aware of their child’s exposure to noise and speak to your children about the risks associated with noise exposure. Noise induced hearing loss is preventable, but once it occurs, it is irreversible.
The American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA) recommends these tips on preventing hearing loss related to the use of headphones:
- Keep the volume down—a good guide is half volume
- Limit listening time and give your hearing “quiet breaks”
- Model good listening habits for your children
ASHA and the World Health Organization (WHO) have joined forces to increase public awareness about these issues. Click on the following links for more information and for tips on how you can protect your child’s hearing.
http://www.asha.org/Buds/Information-for-Parents/
http://www.asha.org/uploadedFiles/ASHA/Buds/WHO-Make-Listening-Safe-Campaign-Factsheet.pdf
Yours in Health,
New Horizons Wellness Services13333 SW 68th Pkwy,
Tigard, OR 97223
- https://g.page/newhws
New Horizons Wellness Services provides a true multidisciplinary approach to mental & physical health treatments for children, adults and families.