(BPT) - Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the country, with many seniors roaring onto pickleball courts nationwide. But whether it’s a friendly game or an intramural matchup, all senses must be engaged for the best play — especially our hearing.
Think about the last time you had your hearing tested. Was it recently? If it wasn’t and you find yourself turning up the television or straining to hear conversations in crowded rooms, it’s time to have an audiologist or hearing instrument specialist check your hearing.
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), hearing loss affects more than 60 million Americans ages 12 and older. By the time people reach age 65, more than 30% experience hearing loss, and that percentage only goes up as people age. The NCOA also reports nearly 30 million Americans could significantly benefit from wearing a hearing aid.
HearingLife + USA Pickleball
That's why HearingLife, a global leader in hearing care, has become USA Pickleball's official hearing care partner to raise awareness about the importance of hearing health and the dangers of hearing loss. HearingLife knows that participating in an active lifestyle — like a pickleball match — encourages an all-around healthy routine, including hearing care.
At select USA Pickleball events throughout the year, HearingLife is offering complimentary hearing assessments to attendees and players.
"Hearing loss can prevent people from doing activities they love, like pickleball," said Dr. Leslie Soiles, HearingLife's chief audiologist. "And it's ironic because these types of activities and exercises can actually help slow hearing loss. That's why getting your hearing checked is so important. It's a gateway to a more active, fulfilling life."
In addition to offering on-site services such as free screenings, HearingLife's presence will include educational resources on how hearing loss can impact not only athletic performance, but also overall quality of life. Visitors can also learn about the latest advancements in hearing aid technology, including devices that are designed to enhance clarity in noisy environments — perfect for sporting activities like pickleball.
The risk of untreated hearing loss
Many people brush off hearing loss and don’t think about hearing as essential to health and longevity. Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, loneliness, social withdrawal and even problems at work if you miss instructions or don't understand coworkers. Worse, it can cause cognitive decline, memory problems and even increased risk of falls.
Caring for your hearing
You care for your teeth by brushing twice each day and for your body by eating right and exercising. What about your ears? Here are some ways to care for your hearing, from the pros at HearingLife.
1. Mind your exposure to loud noises. Loved those packed concerts in your youth? We did, too. For the reunion tour, it's wise to wear earplugs. That also goes for exposure to construction sites or loud machinery.
2. Monitor how long you wear headphones or earbuds. Turn down the volume of your favorite podcast or playlist, and don't wear the ear devices for an extended period of time.
3. Get regular checkups. Visit your hearing care professional on a regular basis, especially if you notice worsening hearing loss or other symptoms such as ringing in your ears.
4. Manage chronic conditions. High blood pressure, diabetes and smoking can contribute to hearing loss. Managing those conditions and quitting smoking helps keep your ears healthy.
5. Keep active. The improved blood flow you get from exercise is great for your ears. Walking, cycling, canoeing, working out at the gym, all contribute to good hearing health. Why not take up pickleball?
HearingLife is making it easy to get started. The company is sponsoring a giveaway to the USA Pickleball National Championships! One lucky winner and a plus-one can enter for a chance to win a three-night trip to Mesa, AZ, for the USA Pickleball tournament taking place Nov. 9-17. It’s free and easy to enter: just visit https://www.hearinglife.com/pickleball-sweepstakes and submit your email. The winner will be notified on Oct. 23.
