May is Better Hearing Month

May brings spring flowers, Mother’s Day, and the first long weekend of the summer, but did you know that it is also better hearing month? In 1986, President Ronald Reagan issued this proclamation:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RONALD REAGAN, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim the month of May as Better Hearing and Speech Month, and I call upon the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate ceremonies and activities. (Proclamation 5486, May 21, 1986).

President Reagan wore hearing aids but also a long time advocate for the hard of hearing. The goal then, as is  it is today, is to bring awareness to the challenges that arise from hearing loss. Nearly 40 million Americans have a hearing loss. And for those over 65, nearly 40% have a significant loss. Unfortunately, all too many go untreated. Untreated hearing loss can lead to other health complications not to mention a diminished earning power.

So this Better Hearing Month, encourage someone close to you to have their hearing evaluated. And if you have been told by a loved one to get your hearing checked, please set an appointment today. A hearing evaluation is free, so there is no excuse to wait any longer.