What Is Speech-In-Noise Testing?

Hearing tests are an insightful way to assess your hearing loss. There are many different types of hearing tests, all of which have their own function in determining the severity, type and cause of your personal hearing loss. One such test is called the speech-in-noise test. What Happens During a Speech-In-Noise Test? Your audiologist will…
Why Annual Hearing Tests Matter

This time of year is an excellent opportunity to set priorities for your health. Beyond New Year’s Resolutions, this is also a time for planning and getting organized. If you haven’t added your hearing health to your list of priorities for the year, this post is your sign to do so. The Importance of Routine…
Understanding Vestibular Therapy and What to Expect at Your First Appointment

If you suffer from a balance issue, such as vertigo or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), a balance specialist might refer you to start vestibular therapy. Vestibular therapy is a type of physical therapy that utilizes exercises to train the body and brain to manage dizziness and regain balance. The Body’s Sense of Balance In…
Preventing Falls This Holiday Season

Falls are a serious event that can lead to injury and a hospital visit. Don’t let a fall upset your holiday. Let’s discuss why falls increase during the holiday season and what you can do to prevent a fall. Holiday Balance Hazards Decorating the house for the season is one of the most cherished holiday…
Recognizing Early Balance Problems Before They Become Falls

Maintaining good balance is essential for everyday tasks, such as standing up and walking, as well as for overall safety. Balance issues can increase your risk of falling, which is a significant health concern for adults aged 65 and older. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one million adults in…
How the Season Change Affects Balance and Stability

Cooler weather is coming to Santa Fe. It’s well-documented that season changes have profound effects on our lifestyle, mood and even mental well-being, so let’s investigate how the season change might affect your balance and fall risk. The Effect of Shorter, Darker Days on Your Body As days grow shorter and we spend more time…
How Do I Manage My Tinnitus While I’m at Work?

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 8% of all workers in the United States have tinnitus. If you’re one of them, you’re keenly aware of how tinnitus can impede your workday. Tinnitus is a neurological condition in which you hear a sound in your ear with no physical source….
What Can Damage My Hearing Aids?

Hearing aids are a significant investment, and you want to take care of them. Properly caring for your hearing aids can significantly extend their lifespan. That said, hearing aids are small, delicate pieces of technology and are susceptible to damage, especially since they get used heavily daily. Below are some common hazards that can cause…
Balance Exercises You Can Do at Home to Reduce Fall Risk

Exercise and physical activity are essential aspects of a healthy lifestyle, and this is especially true as we age and fall risk increases. More than 25% of adults aged 65 and older fall every year, and three million need to go to the ER due to injury. Injuries from falls can affect daily life and…
How Do the Ears Affect Balance?

The ear is a complex organ. It isn’t just a part of the auditory process; it also plays a significant role in your sense of balance. With a complex network of organs and passageways, your ears assist with orienting yourself in space, communicating with the brain on which way is up and what direction your…