{"id":4001,"date":"2024-01-05T18:29:30","date_gmt":"2024-01-05T23:29:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hamptonroadsent.com\/?p=4001"},"modified":"2024-01-05T18:29:31","modified_gmt":"2024-01-05T23:29:31","slug":"new-year-new-name-what-to-know-about-better-speech-and-hearing-months-new-name","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hamptonroadsent.com\/new-year-new-name-what-to-know-about-better-speech-and-hearing-months-new-name\/","title":{"rendered":"New Year, New Name: What to Know About Better Speech and Hearing Month\u2019s New Name"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The National Association for Hearing and Speech Action (NAHSA) has been commemorating May as Better Speech and Hearing Month since 1972. This month-long observance is dedicated to raising public awareness about the 1.5 billion people worldwide<\/a> who live with hearing loss. However, as of 2024, the event will be rebranded as National Speech-Language-Hearing Month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This shift in terminology is a conscious effort to eliminate the word \u201cbetter\u201d which can inadvertently pass judgment on those living with hearing loss or communication disorders, potentially undermining their worth and ability. The fundamental goals of this observance remain unchanged\u2014to educate the public about communication disorders and to highlight preventive measures and possible treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n

Why this Matters<\/h2>\n\n
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Out of the global population experiencing hearing loss, 430 million individuals are affected by disabling hearing loss.<\/a> In the United States alone, roughly 15% of adults have reported<\/a> some degree of hearing difficulty. Therefore, deafness and hearing loss are widespread issues, impacting 20% of the global population. By 2050, it is projected that over 700 million people could suffer from disabling hearing loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In response to the increasing prevalence of noise exposure-related hearing loss, the World Health Organization issued new standards for safe listening levels in 2022<\/a>. There has also been a notable increase in speech delays among children<\/a> following the pandemic, and the aging population continues to be at risk for developing hearing loss. These factors underscore the importance of raising awareness about speech, language and hearing health. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n

How to Participate<\/h2>\n\n\n

Every year, NAHSA launches digital campaigns and Public Service Announcements (PSAs), disseminating information through web-based platforms and downloadable resources, available bilingually. These initiatives aim to reach and engage millions of people. As the only organization exclusively dedicated to public education about communication health, NAHSA operates as the consumer affiliate of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. To participate in National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, you can reach out to the West Hampton Community Center for information about local events or organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you wish to learn more about your hearing health <\/a>or schedule a hearing test for yourself or a loved one, please contact Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy<\/span> to arrange an appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n