Who Is At Risk Of Developing Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can affect anyone, however some people are more at risk. Understanding this risk can be important, as it could encourage you to take preventative action such as wearing ear protection or booking a hearing test. Below are some of the types of people that are most at risk.
Seniors
Hearing loss can naturally occur as we get older. Roughly one in three people over the age of 65 experience hearing loss, while half of people over the age of 75 are believed to have some form of hearing loss. Regular hearing tests are recommended once you reach 65 to help diagnose hearing loss early. By exploring a range of hearing aid brands such as Widex hearing and Otoka, you can find a hearing aid suited to your lifestyle that will help you to hear better.
Motorcyclists
Prolonged exposure to noises above 85 decibels can cause hearing loss. Most motorcycles exceed 90 decibels, with some reaching noises well above 100 decibels at high speed. Consequently, if you ride a motorcycle, you could be at increased risk of developing hearing loss. This is why it is recommended that motorcyclists wear earplugs - especially on long journeys.
Musicians
Many musicians are at increased risk of developing hearing loss when playing live. A symphony orchestra can reach a volume of 98 decibels, while rock concerts can reach volumes at high as 120 decibels. DJs in nightclubs meanwhile regularly play music at 100 decibels. It is not just musicians who are at risk of course - anyone working a music venue or nightclub on a regular basis can have their hearing damaged. Earplugs are a solution that can reduce damage - there are specialist earplugs that can reduce sound without reducing sound quality.
Construction workers
Many power tools and machines used on construction sites exceed 85 decibels when in use. Tools like jackhammers and electric saws can even exceed 100 decibels. Construction workers are therefore at high risk of experiencing hearing loss. Wearing earplugs or ear defenders can help to protect the ears.
Farmers
From machinery like tractors to squealing pigs, there are many loud noises that farmers have to deal with on a daily basis. It’s therefore no wonder that farmers are more likely to experience hearing loss than people in many other professions. Farmers are advised to protect their ears when dealing with loud machinery or lots of loud animals.
Aviation workers
A jet can reach volumes as high as 140 decibels at takeoff. Airport ground staff are therefore the most vulnerable when it comes to hearing loss - heavy duty ear defenders are mandatory to prevent hearing loss. Pilots can also benefit from wearing ear protection, especially when piloting aircraft with less sound insulation in the cockpit.
Factory workers
The noise inside many factories can also exceed 85 decibels. If you work in a factory with loud machinery, you could be at increased risk of developing hearing loss and should definitely consider looking into ear protection. The type of ear protection that is recommended may depend on the machinery you are working around as some machines can be louder than others.