Get inspired to join a mission to spread awareness about hearing and speech.
May is Better Hearing and Speech Month (BHSM), a time to raise awareness about hearing loss and communication challenges. While hearing loss awareness and prevention efforts take place year-round, this month provides a unique opportunity to get involved and connect with others about these important issues. Learn how you can join the movement with these five ways to recognize and celebrate Better Hearing and Speech Month:
- Spread the word on social media
- Contact your local news media
- Participate in a BHSM event – when conditions allow
- Get your hearing tested
- Practice and share hearing loss prevention tips
Learn more about each of these ideas for spreading hearing loss awareness below.
Spread the word on social media
One of the best ways to celebrate BHSM is to get the word out to as many people as possible! Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are great tools that can help you spread hearing loss awareness even beyond your friend group. Consider posting hearing loss facts, relevant articles or blog posts, or other information social media users may find helpful. Be sure to encourage your friends to get their hearing tested – and that annual hearing test is more important than they may know!
The CapTel website is a great source for hearing loss information – find tips here to share!
If you’re new to Facebook and other online networks, check out these social media tips for seniors to navigate them safely and smoothly.
Contact your local news media
Now is the perfect time to reach out to your local media and ask them to cover hearing loss signs and hearing loss prevention in their publications, broadcasts, and websites. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) provides an Identify the Signs Campaign Member Toolkit you can use in media outreach efforts to pitch a story on early detection and prevention.
Participate in a BHSM event – when conditions allow
From concerts to fundraisers, May is traditionally filled with ASHA-sponsored BHSM events that combine fun and community with awareness. As of this writing, 2020 events have not been announced and may not be held in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, you can stay updated on the latest event announcements on the ASHA website.
Get your hearing tested
Hearing loss prevention begins with early detection. Consider getting your hearing tested and encourage family and friends to do the same when conditions allow. Here are some resources to learn more about hearing tests:
Practice and share hearing loss prevention tips
While age is the strongest predictor, other factors like genetics and loud noise exposure can also play a role in developing hearing loss. We can all do to certain things to help protect our ears from damage caused by everyday noises, including wearing hearing protection and limiting exposure to certain extreme sounds. Here are a few hearing loss prevention resources to browse:
- Practical Hearing Loss Prevention Tips
- 7 Hearing Loss Prevention Articles to Bookmark and Save
- 6 Hearing Loss Prevention Infographics
The chances are good that you or someone you care about has been impacted by hearing loss. While Better Hearing and Speech Month is a wonderful opportunity to spread awareness about hearing loss and its impact, hearing loss awareness and prevention continues all year long!
To learn how a captioned telephone for hearing loss can help you or someone you care about, call 800.233.9130 or visit CapTel.com today.
