5 Tips for Maintaining Healthy Ears as You Age
As we age, it’s normal for certain senses to change, and hearing is often one of the first to shift. But here’s the good news: there are simple, everyday habits that can help maintain healthy ears and keep you connected to the sounds that matter most—whether it’s the laughter of grandkids, a favorite song, or the quiet hum of nature.
In senior living Las Vegas, we encourage residents to take proactive steps in caring for their hearing, ensuring they continue to enjoy conversations, activities, and all the sounds that enrich daily life.
1. Schedule Regular Hearing Checks
Just like eye exams and dental visits, hearing tests should be part of your regular healthcare routine. Hearing loss can develop gradually, making it easy to overlook early signs. Audiologists recommend scheduling a baseline hearing test around age 60, followed by regular check-ups.
Watch for common signs of hearing changes:
Frequently asking people to repeat themselves
Turning up the TV volume higher than usual
Difficulty following conversations in noisy environments
A persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
In many retirement communities, residents often have access to on-site hearing screenings, making it simple to stay on top of their hearing health.
2. Protect Your Ears from Loud Noises
Noise-induced hearing loss can occur at any age, but seniors are more vulnerable as their ears become more sensitive. Everyday noises—like loud traffic, construction, or even certain household appliances—can contribute to long-term damage.
Tips for noise protection:
Use earplugs or noise-canceling headphones when around loud sounds.
Keep the TV, radio, or headphones at a moderate volume.
Take “quiet breaks” if you’re in a noisy environment for extended periods.
3. Keep Ears Clean—But Gently
While it’s tempting to reach for cotton swabs, they can actually push wax deeper into the ear canal, leading to blockages and irritation. Instead:
Use a damp washcloth to gently clean around the outer ear.
If earwax buildup becomes an issue, speak to a healthcare provider about safe removal options.
Stay clear of over-the-counter ear drops unless advised by a doctor.
4. Watch for Underlying Health Issues
Certain health conditions can affect hearing, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and even some medications. Regular health check-ups can help catch issues that might impact ear health.
Did you know? Even mild dehydration can affect the fluid balance in the inner ear, so staying hydrated is another simple way to support your hearing.
5. Embrace Technology for Better Hearing
Modern hearing aids and assistive devices have come a long way. They’re now smaller, more discreet, and packed with smart features that make daily life easier. Some even connect directly to smartphones and TVs for crystal-clear sound.
For residents in senior living Las Vegas, community programs often include tutorials on using hearing aids and other devices, helping everyone stay confident and connected.