Understanding and Recognizing Hearing Loss in Dads: A Guide to Better Communication

06/27/2023 R.C. Liley Leave a comment

Every June, Father’s Day reminds us of the importance of communication in families. Effective communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, and a key aspect of successful communication is clear and accurate hearing. Hearing loss, unfortunately, can affect individuals of all ages and genders, including dads. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of hearing loss in fathers is crucial to supporting their overall well-being and maintaining strong family bonds.

Studies show men ages 20 to 69 are twice as likely as women to experience hearing loss. The perception that hearing loss only happens to older people is not necessarily true. Men can start losing their hearing in their 30s and 40s when communication with their children is paramount to developing strong relationships. While it is true that men are more likely to experience hearing loss at an early age compared to women, the exact reasons for this gender disparity are not entirely clear. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, including lifestyle influences. Men are often over-represented in occupations that expose them to high levels of noise, such as construction, manufacturing, and military service.

According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, it takes people, on average, seven years from the time they suspect they might have a hearing loss to the time they seek treatment. So, this June we ask, “How do we get dads on-board with better hearing health?”

First, we need to recognize the signs of hearing loss. Hearing loss can be gradual and may go unnoticed for some time. Dads experiencing hearing loss may exhibit the following signs:

Difficulty following conversations: If your dad frequently asks others to repeat themselves or appears to misunderstand what has been said, it could be an indication of hearing loss.
Turning up the volume: Notice if your dad consistently sets the television or radio volume higher than usual. This compensatory behavior may suggest difficulty in hearing.
Social withdrawal: Hearing loss can lead to frustration, embarrassment, and isolation. If your dad begins avoiding social gatherings or seems less engaged in conversations, it could be due to hearing difficulties. Healthcare experts warn that withdrawing from social interaction can lead to cognitive decline or depression.

Misinterpreting speech: If your dad frequently misinterprets or misunderstands words, it may indicate a decline in hearing capabilities. Spoken consonants can be especially tricky, so for example, when you offer dad “cake” and he asks about Aunt “Kate,” that may be a sign of hearing loss.
Ringing in the ears: Tinnitus, characterized by a ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in the ears, is often associated with hearing loss. If your dad complains of such symptoms, it is essential to consider the possibility of hearing impairment.

Once you have recognized potential signs of hearing loss in your dad, it is crucial to encourage him to seek professional help. Approach the subject with empathy and understanding, emphasizing the benefits of early intervention. A comprehensive hearing evaluation by an audiologist or hearing care specialist can determine the extent of hearing loss. While the goal should be for dad to make an appointment with a hearing care professional, his familiar primary care physician can also be a good place to start. In addition to its network of audiologists and licensed hearing aid specialists, HearUSA works closely with primary care physicians.

Additionally, broaching the subject of hearing aids means understanding for yourself how modern devices differ from what your father (and maybe you) think of them. Various models are designed to be discreet, so they don’t stand out; and rechargeable, so he doesn’t have to worry about changing those tiny batteries. Many models also offer a wireless connection to your smartphone, laptop, or tablet to adjust the hearing aid performance based on the specific sound situation, such as having a conversation in a crowded restaurant.

The impact of hearing loss extends beyond the individual experiencing it. Family members can contribute to a positive and supportive environment by learning about hearing loss and its effects on communication. Understanding the challenges your dad faces can help you adjust your approach and offer appropriate support. Encourage your dad to share his experiences, concerns, and any adjustments he may need to improve communication. Be patient with your dad and empathize with his struggles. Recognize that hearing loss can be frustrating and emotionally challenging. Providing emotional support can significantly improve your dad’s well-being.

Recognizing hearing loss in dads and taking proactive steps to address it is essential for maintaining strong family connections and overall well-being. By recognizing the signs, encouraging professional evaluation and implementing treatment, everyone benefits.

By: Andrew Wagner Au.D. CCC-A at HearUSA

Going Healthy, Health, Life, Tips

Things To Consider To Improve Your Smile

06/27/2023 R.C. Liley Leave a comment

Smiling suits everybody. If you do not smile often due to a lack of confidence or because you do not feel satisfied with the health of your teeth, you need to take action. It is healthy to smile.

If you desire a healthier-looking smile, here are some things to consider.

Positive young multiethnic couple smiling and looking at each other on street · Free Stock Photo (pexels.com)

Seek expert modern dentistry support

Using modern dentistry experts, you can ensure to obtain the best results. There, you can ask about new procedures and get the most recent treatments to ensure your teeth are as healthy and as confident as you desire.

There will be various dentists near you that can help with your concerns. Ensure to talk to them about what you would like to achieve, and they will provide the best treatment plan to help you achieve your dream smile.

Whether you want to try straightening, whitening, or something else, an expert will guarantee to provide you with what you need. You can get Invisalign in Birmingham (or wherever you live) for example, if you’re looking to reduce crookedness and crowding, which in turn will also make it easier to clean your teeth each day. The straighter your teeth are, the less likely it is that food will get stuck between them, so it makes sense to look into orthodontic treatments if you’re also concerned about plaque, gum disease or discolouration.

Soften your smile

Another way to improve your smile and its appearance is to soften your face when you smile.

You will appear softer and more relaxed if you soften your face. It will help to make your smile look more natural, which will make you love it more when you see it in photos.

Teeth cleaning (at home and with the dentist)

It is important to clean your teeth thoroughly and effectively. Doing so at home should involve brushing twice a day and flossing daily.

After that, you can also seek cleaning at your dentist. They will perform a deep clean to remove plaque.

Limit your coffee and red wine intake

Limiting your coffee and red wine intake can do wonders for your teeth, their health, and your smile.

Caffeine and red wine can stain teeth, leaving them to appear yellow or brown. Therefore, cut down if you wish to improve your teeth and their appearance.

Cut back on the sugar and smoking

Similarly, sugar and smoking can impact the health and appearance of the teeth. Too much of either can cause rotting and oral health issues.

Cutting back or eliminating the two completely will benefit your teeth and help you achieve healthier teeth, making you feel more confident when you smile.

Practice smiling in the mirror to perfect your smile and gain more confidence

Practising smiling in the mirror can help you find your natural smile, one that you feel confident and comfortable with.

The more you practice, the more you will see how great you look when you smile. You can find your perfect smile and smile more.

These tips are simple yet effective when it comes to improving your smile. If you currently live an imbalanced or unhealthy lifestyle, making a few changes can do wonders for your oral health. Furthermore, if you practice smiling and perform dentist treatments, such as straightening, you can feel more confident when you smile, encouraging you to smile more.

Lifestyle

6 New Trends Transforming Male Grooming

06/27/2023 R.C. Liley Leave a comment

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Grooming is an excellent way to take good care of your body while boosting self-esteem. It’s noteworthy that male grooming has significantly evolved, with more men becoming mindful of it. Today, many men are not embarrassed to go the extra mile to look their best. This shifting mindset has contributed to new and exciting trends transforming the male grooming industry. With a market size of $74.8 billion, beauty routines are no longer the sole preserve of women. Here are a few trends leading the tall list in male grooming, from innovative products to advanced techniques.

Embracing the beard revolution

The beard revolution continues to gain momentum across all age groups. More men are getting comfortable with self-grooming and have effortlessly embraced this revolution. A few decades ago, sporting sideburns with a full beard and mustache was the trend. This appearance was believed to project men as more masculine and strong. Later, the full beard gave way to other sophisticated facial hair styles. Following the trend, you will notice that modern masculinity has returned to the past with a contemporary twist. Facial hair styling has become an art form, allowing you to express your individuality and sense of style. Therefore, if you sport a well-groomed beard, a neat mustache, or a sophisticated goatee, it is an excellent way of expressing your style and personality. In response to this trend, grooming brands have introduced a wide range of products specifically designed for beard care. Products like beard oils, balms, and waxes nourish and grow these facial hairs. Tools like precision trimmers and specialized beard brushes help you shape and style your facial hair to your preference.

Sustainable grooming

In recent years, sustainability has become a significant consideration in various industries. Grooming is not left out of the discussion especially considering that the beauty industry has listened to market calls for ethically-sourced and sustainable products. Research has shown that more men increasingly seek eco-friendly and green grooming products, with surveys revealing that people want to reduce the impact of personal products on the environment. The grooming industry’s response is the creation of sustainable alternatives to satisfy growing market demand. That is why packaging is produced from recycled materials, biodegradable formulas, and cruelty-free testing. Bamboo toothbrushes, refillable shaving products, and natural ingredient-based grooming items are gaining popularity. By choosing sustainable grooming options, you will actively contribute to environmental waste reduction and support environmentally friendly practices.

Breaking traditional norms with male makeup

A few decades ago, a man wearing makeup was the talk of the town, but it’s no longer the situation. Although a section of society may be unfamiliar with this trend, male makeup has infiltrated the mainstream beauty industry. It is steadily becoming popular, allowing interested men to experiment with cosmetics to enhance their features. You might be wrong if you thought only male models wear these in magazines and on the runway. Many are exploring male makeup for other reasons beyond achieving an overall polished look. Some men are uncomfortable with their skin blemishes and, therefore, would invest in makeup to hide them. Some of these products are tinted moisturizers or BB creams for a natural and even skin tone. Meanwhile, male concealers and color correctors also make waves as they help cover imperfections and dark circles. Additionally, brow gels and mascaras subtly define the eyebrows and lashes to help you appear well put together.

Scientific breakthrough cosmetics

More men now understand the importance of maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin, leading to the rise of male skincare. The global skincare industry noticed the growing interest among men to look better than their contemporaries did a decade or more ago. This market discovery has led to the development of many skincare products specifically formulated for male skin. Today, you will find many skincare products targeting the tougher male skin, from cleansers to moisturizers, serums, and masks. Biologically, male skin is thicker and tougher, making it important to have specific skincare products that attend to that. Such trends have led to the development of products like Dermacrine skin gel, which enhances male hormones while boosting fat-burning processes in the body. Therefore, if you are after lean muscle and strength, such products suit your needs.

Versatility in male hair care

Hair care is a crucial discussion that has gained ground in male grooming. Haircuts and styles have evolved beyond traditional norms, giving way to versatility and creativity. From buzz cuts to long locks, men explore different lengths, textures, and styles to suit their lifestyles. In response to this trend, the global hair care industry has flooded the market with many hair care products and styling tools, providing a wide variety. Whereas products such as volumizing powders and texturizing sprays were more popular for women, the male grooming industry has made these more available and easily accessible. On the market also are specialized hairdryers and styling brushes to provide precision and control during the styling process, helping many men experiment with different hairstyles to adapt their looks to suit their personalities.

Increase in male-dominated online grooming communities

As more men become interested in their appearance, learning and sharing knowledge has become crucial. More men prefer to connect with like-minded people ready to share tips, recommendations, and insights into contemporary grooming routines. Moreover, the rise of online communities like social media has played a significant role in male grooming. These platforms have, over the years, become rich resources for new male grooming techniques and tools needed for them. The sense of community and camaraderie this presents makes joining these groups worthwhile. Suppose you want to learn new ways to build your grooming skills. In that case, you can search the internet to join these online communities.

The world of male grooming has witnessed many fascinating trends, and if you’re looking for some of the most current ways to take good care of yourself, it’s not too late. Some trends highlighted above provide various male grooming options for your style and personality.