Exercise is long known to have several health benefits and can even be a key to preventing presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss. According to a 2019 study, adults aged 60-69 with hearing loss had a poorer physical activity profile, linking physical activity to hearing health. So, take a stroll through Cooper Riverside Park to begin healthy exercise habits to protect your hearing.
Promoting Healthy Hearing
Hearing loss is common, with nearly a quarter of people aged 65-74 experiencing disabling hearing loss. According to a study by the University of Florida, those with poorer physical activity levels may experience worse health conditions over time. The study found that physical activity promotes longevity for overall well-being and promotes healthier hearing as you age. It showed that routine cardio activity provides the necessary blood flow and oxygen levels to maintain healthy auditory systems, maintaining hearing over time.
Protect Your Hearing
Participating in regular exercise won’t save your hearing in other situations of hearing loss, such as due to noise exposure. It’s still important to protect your hearing. For example, 18% of adults aged 20-69 have hearing loss in both ears from those who report five or more years of loud exposure at work. This highlights the significance of limiting exposure to loud noises.
Hearing safety tips:
- Wear earplugs.
- Monitor volume levels on your devices and note any notifications saying your volume is too loud.
- Monitor sound levels in places such as exercise classes.
- Get your hearing checked regularly to catch any small changes in your hearing.
- If swimming, keep your ears dry to avoid Swimmer’s ear.
Even as an active adult, you cannot reverse hearing loss. It’s essential to protect your hearing. It is recommended to engage in cardio activity five times per week for 20-30 minutes to maintain a healthy auditory system. Consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise program.
To learn more about how to protect your hearing or to schedule a hearing test, contact Premier Medical Group.