Get ready for a fun year packed with exciting events!
Are you ready to make 2024 a year filled with learning, connection, and inspiration as a person with hearing loss (or a friend or family member looking to support someone with hearing loss)?
From conventions and awareness walks to global days of observance, there are a variety of hearing loss events dedicated to bringing people together while sharing life-changing information and resources about hearing health.
Mark your calendar for these must-attend hearing loss events in 2024!
- World Hearing Day (March 3)
- Walk4Hearing (Various dates and locations)
- National Speech-Language-Hearing Month (May)
- HLAA Convention (June 26–29)
- ALDAcon (September 11-15)
- ASHA Convention (December 5-7)
Below, learn more about these events and how to get involved or register if you’d like to participate.
1. World Hearing Day (March 3)
Observed globally on March 3rd, World Hearing Day is an initiative started by the World Health Organization (WHO) to promote ear and hearing care. The day aims to raise awareness about hearing loss prevention, detection, and treatment.
Each year brings a new theme, and the choice for 2024 is Changing mindsets: Let’s make ear and hearing care a reality for all! The focus will be on overcoming social stigmas and misperceptions about hearing loss. Changing these negative mindsets is a critical step in getting people the help they need.
On March 3, join the worldwide community in spreading the message and encouraging your friends and family to care for their hearing health. Check out the official World Hearing Day page for campaign materials and activities.
2. Walk4Hearing (Various dates and locations)
Get ready to lace up your sneakers and join the Walk4Hearing, a series of annual walking events that take place across the country to raise funds and awareness for hearing loss. Organized by the HLAA, these walks provide a fantastic opportunity for individuals, families, and teams to come together, enjoy some exercise, and contribute to a great cause.
Visit the Walk4Hearing website for updates on walk locations and dates. And explore more information about Walk4Hearing in our blog archive!
3. National Speech-Language-Hearing Month (May)
National Speech-Language-Hearing Month is a fresh rebrand of an awareness campaign by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). For over 50 years, it was known as “Better Hearing and Speech Month,” until the change was made earlier this year with modernity and inclusivity in mind.
Of course, while the name may have changed, the mission has not. National Speech-Language-Hearing Month focuses on promoting awareness of communication disorders and encouraging people to seek help for hearing- and speech-related issues throughout the month of May.
Keep an eye on ASHA’s events page for more details and ways to get involved.
4. HLAA Convention (June 26–29)
The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) Convention is an annual gathering that brings together individuals with hearing loss, their families, and professionals in the field. This event offers a platform for sharing experiences, learning about the latest technologies, and advocating for hearing loss rights. Attendees can expect informative sessions, educational workshops, cutting-edge product demonstrations, and the opportunity to connect with a supportive community. The theme of 2024’s research symposium is The Emotional Side of Hearing Loss.
This year, for the first time ever, the conference venue is a resort in Phoenix, Arizona — Sheraton Grand Resort at Wild Horse Pass. In between sessions, be prepared to enjoy a luxurious experience, take in the stunning landscape, and explore elements of the local indigenous culture.
Check out the HLAA Convention page for more details and registration information.
5. ALDAcon (September 11-15)
The Association of Late-Deafened Adults (ALDA) hosts an annual conference known as ALDAcon, providing a unique space for individuals who have experienced late-onset hearing loss. The event offers a supportive environment for sharing experiences, learning about coping strategies, and connecting with a community that understands the challenges of late-deafened individuals.
Guests will enjoy fun events like a welcome reception, karaoke party, luncheons, special events, brunch on the last morning, and more. In between the fun, learn new things at the various presentations and workshops and explore the exhibit hall to see what resources are available to help adults with hearing loss.
In 2024, the conference will take place in sunny Clearwater, Florida, so you can make a great vacation out of it if you plan to attend! Stay tuned for updates and registration details on the ALDA website.
6. ASHA Convention (December 5-7)
Finally, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Convention is a key event for professionals in the fields of audiology, speech-language pathology, and hearing science. Dig into the latest research, earn ASHA education credits, and hone new techniques in helping patients with communication disorders.
The 2024 convention is scheduled to take place in San Francisco, California. See the quick facts for the event here, and keep an eye on the ASHA Convention website for program details and registration information.
Whether you’re attending to gain knowledge, raise awareness, or connect with others who share similar experiences, each of these hearing loss events plays a crucial role in fostering a community that understands the challenges you face and shares a drive to live well with hearing loss. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to get involved and make a positive impact!
These are just some of the important events happening around hearing loss. Check your local community for other hearing-related events in your area. For more hearing loss insights and tips, keep reading the CapTel blog!
