On-Site Hearing's Blog
Noise in the Office Affects Productivity
by Mark Fincham on 05/24/11
Next time you’re in the office, sit there for a moment and quietly listen. What do you hear? The fan on your computer, the air conditioner running, telephones ringing, the soft lull of your co-workers’ conversations? Did you realize this was in the background? This “quiet” can actually affect your health and well-being.
Recent studies have linked an increase of stress levels and a decrease in productivity to the low-level noise in open-style office spaces. Noise levels as low as 50 decibels (dB) can have a negative impact on the health and performance of workers. Fifty decibels is equivalent to the sound of an air conditioner fan or a running refrigerator. Your audiologist will be the first to warn you of the dangers of loud noise in your environment, nagging you on the effects of your lawn mower, power tools, music on your stereo headphones and even constant noise from your workplace. Exposure to constant loud noises is detrimental to your hearing. In addition, exposure to low-level noises has been linked to heart disease, sleep disorders, high blood pressure and increased stress levels. Some research even indicates a link to an increased number of absences from work. Take proactive steps to minimize hearing loss Minimize loud noises at work, at home, or at play. In a single 24-hour period, the maximum exposure time for unprotected ears at 90 decibels (dB) is 8 hours. This time is cut in half for every 5 dB increase in volume. Wear ear protection when exposed to loud noises. Disposable, foam earplugs cost less than $2.00 at most retail stores or you can purchase a custom set made just for you at an audiology clinic. Custom earplugs usually cost around $50 per ear, but last for several years and are very comfortable. Maintain an active exercise routine. Recent studies show a link between exercise and greater hearing sensitivity for all age groups. Cardiovascular fitness improves the blood circulation, which results in a needed supply of nutrients to the inner ear. These nutrients help to maintain the health of the ear and the sensitivity of our hearing. In this world full of ringing phones, humming computers, and buzzing fans there may not be a lot you can do about the low-levels of noise in your office space. What you can control are the few moments a day you have to yourself. When you are at home give yourself a break and take a quiet moment to relax without the TV or radio. You will be surprised at the peacefulness it can bring to you. And your ears will thank you in the long run.
It’s easy to deal with hearing loss when you take precautions, in the office as well as at home. Here are a few tips to help you minimize hearing loss.
Addressing the Under Diagnosed Hearing Loss of Long Term Care Facility Residents
by Mark Fincham on 05/24/11
According to a study conducted by the American Medical Association(*Journal of American Medical Association, Vol 289, No. 15), “hearing loss in the elderly is easily treated but often under diagnosed by doctors who in some cases wrongly consider it an inevitable part of aging.” The most common cause of deafness in older adults, the study continues, is nerve damage, which “is not reversible but can be substantially improved with hearing aids…” The study also revealed that, “only 25% of patients with treatable hearing loss actually receive hearing aids…” What can be done for residents? Consider these situations, which may have affected a resident over the past year: Make sure your residents have regular hearing examinations. You should know that an annual hearing examination does not mean that a resident will need hearing instruments. A third party should always be involved (such as a resident’s attending physician, licensed social worker and/or family members) regarding the results of a hearing evaluation so your resident can be sure he/she is not being “sold” anything. Hearing loss in elderly people is the third most prevalent chronic condition in the older population. Help make a difference in the hearing health of your residents by referring them for annual hearing evaluations and hearing aid maintenance.
Has it been more than a year since a resident’s file has been updated? If so, it’s time for an annual hearing examination. Audiological evaluations can reliably detect hearing loss and monitor known hearing impairment.
Audiological evaluations can reliably detect hearing loss, and licensed audiologists are trained to recognize changes in hearing. There may be a misconception in your facility.
