Protecting your hearing outside of work is just as important as in the workplace. Here are some best practices for maintaining hearing health in daily life:
1. Limit Exposure to Loud Noise
🔹 Follow the 85 dB Rule – Sounds above 85 dB (e.g., concerts, fireworks, motorcycles) can cause damage over time.
🔹 Use volume-limiting settings – Many devices allow you to set a maximum volume limit.
🔹 Maintain a safe distance – Stay at least arm’s length away from speakers at events.
2. Use Hearing Protection
🔹 Wear earplugs or earmuffs in noisy environments (concerts, sporting events, mowing the lawn).
🔹 Choose the right protection – Custom-molded earplugs offer better comfort and noise reduction.
🔹 Noise-canceling headphones reduce the need for high volume when listening to music.
3. Give Your Ears a Break
🔹 Follow the 60/60 rule – Listen at 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
🔹 Take listening breaks after exposure to loud environments.
🔹 Practice "active noise rest" by spending time in quiet spaces.
4. Maintain Ear Hygiene
🔹 Avoid using cotton swabs – They can push wax deeper into the ear.
🔹 Keep ears dry to prevent infections, especially after swimming.
🔹 See a doctor if you experience ear pain, ringing (tinnitus), or muffled hearing.
5. Manage Overall Health
🔹 Eat a hearing-friendly diet – Foods rich in omega-3s, magnesium, and vitamins A, C, and E support hearing health.
🔹 Stay active – Exercise improves circulation, which is crucial for inner ear function.
🔹 Avoid smoking and limit alcohol – Both can increase the risk of hearing loss.
6. Be Mindful of Medications
🔹 Some medications (ototoxic drugs) can cause hearing damage.
🔹 Always ask your doctor about hearing-safe alternatives if you take long-term medication.
7. Get Regular Hearing Checkups
🔹 Schedule a hearing test every year via your Soundtrace partnership, especially if you notice ringing, muffled sounds, or difficulty understanding speech.
🔹 Early detection helps prevent further hearing loss.
🔹 Advocate for yourself, when something doesn't feel or sound right, speak up.