To decrease your risk of hearing loss, The Harvard Women's Health Watch suggests you reduce your exposure to loud noise, the greatest contributor to hair cell damage. While the source of the noise doesn't matter, the intensity and duration of the noise does matter. Even momentary exposure to very loud noises, such as explosions or ambulance sirens, can cause immediate damage. A practical precaution is to carry a set of foam earplugs to insert if the noise level increases. This might help, for instance, if you find yourself near a construction site.
Earplugs are also protective against routine loud noise, such as the vacuum cleaner.
Most importantly, if you suspect a hearing problem, your primary care physician can direct you to the proper specialists for diagnosis and treatment. Hearing Conservation Excerpt from Better Hearing Institute's Your Guide to Better Hearing, plus an interesting chart on decibel levels. . Five minute Hearing Test Take this simple, interactive test to see if you have a hearing problem. . The Boys Town National Research Hospital offers advice on determining a child's hearing abilities. For Senior Care Senior Care Preferred offers a variety of educational programs, including exercise programs and trips.