Stay engaged: How better hearing keeps you connected to the world

Ealing Hearing Centre • March 5, 2024

As an audiologist, I have seen how hearing loss can affect people's quality of life. Hearing loss can make it difficult to communicate with others, enjoy social activities, and stay informed about what is happening around you. It can also lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and depression.


But hearing loss does not have to limit your engagement with the world. There are many ways to improve your hearing and enhance your listening experience. In this blog post, I will share some tips and advice on how to stay engaged with the world through better hearing.


Tip 1: Get your hearing checked regularly


The first step to better hearing is to know your hearing status. Many people are unaware that they have hearing loss, or they may ignore the signs and symptoms. Some common signs of hearing loss are:

- Having trouble hearing people on the phone or in noisy environments

- Asking others to repeat themselves or speak louder

- Turning up the volume on the TV or radio

- Missing out on sounds like birdsong, doorbells, or alarms

- Feeling tired or stressed after listening for a long time


If you notice any of these signs, or if you have a family history of hearing loss, you should get your hearing checked by a qualified audiologist. An audiologist like me, can perform a comprehensive hearing test and diagnose the type and degree of your hearing loss. They can also recommend the best treatment options for your specific needs and preferences.

 

Tip 2: Use hearing aids or other assistive devices


One of the most effective ways to improve your hearing is to use hearing aids or other assistive devices. Hearing aids are small electronic devices that amplify sounds and deliver them to your ears. They can help you hear better in various situations, such as conversations, meetings, lectures, music, and TV.


Hearing aids come in different styles, sizes, and features. Some are worn behind the ear, some are inserted in the ear canal, and some are even invisible. Some have wireless connectivity, noise reduction, feedback cancellation, directional microphones, and rechargeable batteries. Some can be controlled by a smartphone app or a remote control.


The best way to find the right hearing aid for you is to consult with an audiologist. They can help you choose a hearing aid that suits your lifestyle, budget, and cosmetic preferences. They can also fit and program the hearing aid for optimal performance and comfort. Ask me for more advice and tips!


Other assistive devices that can help you hear better include:


- Amplified phones that make the caller's voice louder and clearer

- TV listeners that allow you to adjust the volume and tone of the TV sound without disturbing others

- Loop systems that transmit sound from a microphone or speaker directly to your hearing aid or cochlear implant

- Alerting devices that use flashing lights or vibrations to notify you of sounds like doorbells, smoke alarms, or baby cries


Tip 3: Practice good communication strategies


Another way to improve your hearing is to practice good communication strategies. These are techniques that can help you communicate more effectively with others, especially in challenging listening situations. Some examples of good communication strategies are:


- Choose a quiet and well-lit place for conversation

- Face the speaker and maintain eye contact

- Ask the speaker to speak clearly and at a normal pace

- Use visual cues like gestures, facial expressions, and lip reading

- Repeat or rephrase what you heard to confirm understanding

- Ask for clarification or repetition if you miss something

- Avoid interrupting or finishing the speaker's sentences

- Be honest and assertive about your hearing needs


Tip 4: Stay active and social


The final tip to stay engaged with the world through better hearing is to stay active and social. Hearing loss can make you feel isolated and withdrawn from others, but it is important to maintain your social connections and hobbies. Research has shown that staying socially active can improve your mental health, cognitive function, and overall well-being.


Some ways to stay active and social with hearing loss are:


- Join a support group or a club for people with hearing loss

- Participate in activities that you enjoy, such as sports, arts, music, or volunteering

- Learn new skills or hobbies that stimulate your brain and creativity

- Seek professional help if you experience anxiety or depression due to hearing loss


Hearing loss can affect your engagement with the world, but it does not have to stop you from living a fulfilling life. By following these tips and advice, you can improve your hearing and enhance your listening experience. You can also stay connected with your family, friends, and community.


If you have any questions or concerns about your hearing, please do not hesitate to contact me, Sukhina, here at Ealing Hearing Centre. I am here to help you hear better and live better.

How Regular Ear Wax Removal in Ealing Can Support Better Brain Health

By Aarti Raicha • October 6, 2025
Too much ear wax doesn’t just block sound. It makes the brain work harder to keep up. That constant effort can take a toll on focus and memory. Researchers have even found that untreated hearing loss is tied to a greater risk of dementia. One review that looked at 17 studies showed the link clearly. This is why ear care matters. It’s not just about comfort, it’s about keeping your brain in good shape for the future. How Hearing and Brain Function Are Connected

Microsuction Ear Wax Removal in Ealing – A Complete Guide to Your Appointment

By Aarti Raicha • September 22, 2025
Ear wax isn’t a bad thing; in fact, it protects your ears. But when it builds up too much, it can cause problems. People often notice muffled hearing, dizziness, or even a full “blocked” sensation that doesn’t go away. A 2020 study published in the British Journal of General Practice found that dizziness and reduced hearing were the most common complaints in patients with impacted ear wax. The study also noted that community clinics (such as local hearing centres) play a vital role in making ear care accessible, avoiding long waits for hospital treatment. So, if you’re in Ealing and struggling with blocked ears, microsuction is one of the safest and quickest ways to get relief. But what actually happens when you book? Let’s walk through it step by step. What Exactly Is Microsuction? Microsuction is a method of clearing wax from the ear canal using a tiny suction device. It’s done under direct vision with a microscope, so the specialist can see exactly what’s happening inside your ear. If you’ve ever had syringing before (where water is pushed into the ear), you’ll know it can feel a bit messy. Microsuction is different: no water, no flushing — just careful, precise removal. That’s why many hearing-care professionals now recommend it over older methods. Why So Many People Choose Microsuction in Ealing More people in Ealing are choosing microsuction because it works — and quickly. A study of 159 patients found that microsuction successfully cleared wax in 91% of cases. There can be mild side effects. Around 55% of patients reported dizziness, temporary reduced hearing, or that sounds were unusually loud during the procedure; however, most of these effects were short-lived. Importantly, using softening drops before treatment made the experience more comfortable for many people. What makes it appealing for people in Ealing is the balance of safety and convenience. Because no water is used, the risk of infection is lower, and appointments are usually completed in under 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into a lunch break or busy schedule. Getting Ready for Your Appointment The great thing about microsuction is that it doesn’t need much preparation. In most cases, you can simply book and attend your appointment. Sometimes, your audiologist might suggest using olive oil drops for a few days to soften the wax, but it isn’t always necessary. A couple of tips before you go: Bring along any details about past ear problems or surgery. Take your hearing aids with you if you use them so they can be checked once the wax is removed. And most importantly, don’t worry. The process is very easy, and most people are surprised at how quick it feels. Your audiologist won’t just dive in; they’ll explain each step so you’re comfortable. What Happens During the Appointment

Hearing Tests in Stanmore: Why They Matter More Than You Think

By Aarti Raicha • September 6, 2025
When was the last time you had your hearing checked? If you’re like most people, the answer is either never or a very long time ago. We’re good at booking regular eye tests, keeping up with dental check-ups, even tracking blood pressure. But hearing? That often slips to the bottom of the list. Part of the problem is that hearing changes usually sneak up on you. You don’t wake up one morning unable to hear. It’s slower, subtler. The TV creeps up a notch. You catch yourself asking “pardon?” more often. In a noisy café, you might laugh along even though you miss half the conversation. Little by little, those changes add up and before long, friends or family are pointing it out. That’s exactly why hearing tests in Stanmore matter. One quick, painless check can pick up changes before you even realize they’re there. Why Hearing Tests Matter Hearing loss doesn’t just mean “turning the volume up.” It touches everything. Suddenly conversations in a busy café feel like hard work. Nights out or family dinners leave you more drained than they used to. Some people even start avoiding those situations altogether, just to make life easier. And here’s something many people don’t realize: your brain is involved in hearing just as much as your ears are. When your ears miss part of a word, your brain scrambles to fill in the gaps. Do that all day, every day, and it’s exhausting. Over years, that constant strain can affect memory and has even been linked to dementia. Lucky for you, you don’t have to wait until it gets to that point. What to Expect at a Hearing Test