How to protect your hearing and prevent hearing loss

Protect your ears.

Wear hearing protection when in noisy situations (for instance, mowing, using firearms, using power tools, or going to a concert). To learn more about the different types, look here. If you have to raise your voice to talk to someone three feet from you, then you’re likely in an environment that could cause hearing loss. After being exposed to loud noise (for example, after a concert) give your ears some time to recover by avoiding loud situations for at least 24 hours.

Have your hearing checked regularly.

It’s always a good idea to have a baseline to compare to should something change with your hearing. If the last time you had your hearing checked was as a child, it’s a good idea to have it screened again no matter your age. If you’re 60 or older, you should have your hearing checked every 2-3 years, or if you are regularly around loud sounds, every year.

Limit or avoid risks.

Listen to music at a moderate volume, and avoid listening to music while vacuuming or mowing the lawn. Taking breaks from the noise or moving further from the noise source can also protect your hearing. Use custom earplugs when swimming, especially in natural bodies of water.