Research links hearing loss to cognitive decline, with cochlear implants showing promise in improving cognitive function among older adults. Hearing loss is increasingly prevalent among older adults, with nearly 60% of individuals aged 60 and over experiencing moderate or greater levels of impairment. This condition has significant implications, particularly as the risk for dementia escalates with advancing age. Dementia disproportionately affects women, especially those aged 90 and above, where they are 1.4 times more likely than men to receive a diagnosis. Recent estimates indicate that as of 2023, around 411,100 Australians are living with dementia—a figure projected to more than…

Cliff Cibelli from Vonage highlights the significant impact of background noise on communication in contact centres, revealing that noise-related issues can cost the industry billions annually. In a recent exploration of the challenges faced by contact centres, Cliff Cibelli at Vonage has provided insights into the complexities posed by background noise during customer service interactions. Despite predictions of a decline in voice communication, recent data indicates that the use of voice channels is actually on the rise, particularly for addressing more complicated customer issues. According to a blog post from Cibelli, 81% of service professionals stated that they prefer to…

Changes in earwax colour can indicate various health issues, from infections to more serious conditions. Audiologist Hannah Samuels discusses what each colour may signify. Earwax, scientifically known as cerumen, is a naturally occurring substance produced by the glands in the ear canal. It typically appears as an amber-orange to light brown colour but can present a range of hues. Observations regarding different earwax colours and their potential health implications have recently come to light, as healthcare professionals encourage vigilance regarding changes in its appearance. Hannah Samuels, an audiologist affiliated with the pharmacy chain Boots, outlined the various colours of earwax…

One in six Australians faces hearing loss, yet many hesitate to seek assistance. This article explores the impact of untreated hearing loss and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding hearing aids. One in six Australians experiences some form of hearing loss, which typically begins to affect most adults from middle age onwards. Despite this prevalence, many individuals are hesitant to seek assistance or undergo hearing assessments. Common concerns centre around the possibility of being prescribed hearing aids, with many envisioning the large, cumbersome devices once associated with older generations. Research indicates that acquired hearing loss can significantly impact various…

The Sydney Opera House has made history as the first cultural venue worldwide to introduce Auracast broadcast audio, enhancing the live performance experience for individuals with hearing loss and promoting greater inclusivity. The Sydney Opera House has made history by becoming the first cultural venue in the world to implement Auracast broadcast audio, an innovative assistive listening technology designed to significantly enhance the live performance experience for individuals with hearing loss. This permanent installation, which is powered by Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) audio, is regarded as a key advancement in removing barriers for the one in five people globally who…

The former Communards member discusses the impact of loud music on his hearing and his positive experiences with hearing aids. Reverend Richard Coles, the former member of the 1980s pop band Communards, has disclosed that he is now reliant on hearing aids due to long-term damage inflicted on his ears by his musical career and exposure to loud environments. The 62-year-old, who gained further public recognition after his participation in the reality show I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here last December, shared these details in an interview with The Times. Coles began to acknowledge his hearing problems when he…

Innovative smart glasses have been launched that provide real-time closed captions, enhancing communication for users with hearing difficulties. Nobody should be surprised that AI would come to the aid of the hearing impaired – but few would have expected it would take the form of a pair of glasses. TranscribeGlass, an American firm, has unveiled a cutting-edge AI-powered transcription service integrated into smart glasses made by Vuzix, allowing users to access real-time closed captions in a variety of environments. The new service offers a speech-to-text solution that takes about 300 milliseconds – which is, ironically, equal to the blink of…

Nearly a fifth of people suffer from ringing in the ears at some point. But when should you worry? Tinnitus, popularly known as ringing in the ears, is a widespread auditory condition that affects nearly a fifth of the population worldwide. Characterised by sounds like buzzing, humming, ringing, static or whooshing, tinnitus can vary greatly in intensity and occur in one or both ears. But when should you seek help if you are experiencing symptoms? While tinnitus is often not indicative of a serious health issue, some underlying causes should be noted. For instance, if tinnitus coincides with new or…

Ear hygiene is frequently neglected, leading to discomfort and infections, but proactive ear care can see off any issues. Ears play a vital role in our basic functioning, serving as critical organs for both communication and balance – yet ear hygiene often does not receive the attention it deserves. This neglect can lead to potential discomfort and an increased risk of ear infections, sometimes manifesting as a blocked ear or blocked ears. A proactive approach to ear care can significantly alleviate common issues and promote auditory well-being. Ears possess a self-cleaning mechanism, naturally expelling wax and dirt. However, external factors,…

A study reveals the evolutionary connection between mammalian outer ears and the gills of ancient fish. A recent study published in Nature by researchers from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California has linked the evolutionary origins of the mammalian outer ear to the gills of ancient fish. The study investigates the relationship between elastic cartilage found in mammalian ears and a similar rare tissue characteristic of fish gills. To establish this connection, scientists employed gene enhancers – specific DNA sequences which are responsible for the regulation of tissue development. In an experimental set-up, when human…

Experts highlight the subtle indicators of hearing loss in older individuals and the importance of timely intervention. Hearing health requires constant vigilance because it can get worse day by day, almost without the sufferer or those around them noticing. In this respect, it is like the famous analogy of a frog being placed in a warm pan of water and the heat being slowly increased until it is boiled almost without feeling anything. For hearing, this effect is especially true for older people, whose auditory decline might also be lost among other ailments. Dr Angela Peng, an otolaryngologist at Baylor…

**London**: TranscribeGlass has unveiled an AI-driven transcription service for Vuzix Z100 smart glasses, enabling real-time closed captions for the deaf and hard of hearing. With features like speaker identification and lightweight design, the glasses aim to enhance communication and inclusivity in various environments. A groundbreaking announcement from TranscribeGlass has the potential to revolutionise accessibility for the deaf and hard of hearing community. The company recently unveiled a cutting-edge AI-powered transcription service integrated into the Vuzix Z100™ smart glasses, allowing users to access real-time closed captions in a variety of environments. The new service offers an AI-driven speech-to-text solution that boasts…