Hidden Hearing ambassadors Úna Walsh, former Irish rugby player Tony Ward and neuroscientist and author Dr. Sabina Brennan are urging Irish people to start loving their ears this World Hearing Day (March 3, 2023).
Musician Úna Walsh, who wowed millions of The Late Late Toy Show viewers in 2021, was 10 when she was diagnosed with moderate to severe hearing loss and more than likely had hearing loss since birth.
"I’m delighted to be part of this worthy campaign to urge people young and old to love their ears," she said. "I cannot put into words how much my bluetooth hearing aid has changed my life. I feel so much more included in everyday things that others may take for granted."
"Simple things like turning the volume down protects your ears and will care for your long term health," she added. "If you do have hearing loss, act on it and get your hearing checked - it’s so quick and easy! Don’t let something like hearing loss hold you back."
Former Irish Rugby Player Tony Ward, who believes his hearing loss was heightened by head injuries during his career, said: "I have over 70% hearing loss and without hearing aids I would have a really difficult quality of life"
"Although my hearing loss did lead to a level of reclusiveness and isolation, my hearing aids have now opened the door to a better life. My life would be very different if I ignored my hearing loss."
It’s worth having your hearing checked regularly as hearing loss can be linked to other diseases.
Neuroscientist and author Dr. Sabina Brennan said: "Hearing loss increases your risk of developing dementia. That’s why I would advise people to follow the recommendation of the Dementia, Prevention and Care Report of the Lancet Commission which encourages the use of hearing aids for hearing loss and advocates the protection of ears from excessive noise exposure."
"Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation and depression both of which are detrimental to the health of your brain. That’s why adopting hearing health habits like protecting your ears from excessive noise, going for annual hearing tests and wearing hearing aids are a brilliant way to look after your brain health."
Top tips to love your ears:
- Turn down headphones
- Wear ear protection when needed
- Get tested regularly
- Wear hearing aids to protect against hearing loss
Free hearing tests and free sample hearing aids are available at over 80 local clinics across Ireland. See www.hiddenhearing.ie or free-call 1800 882 884.
