Listening for Better Hearing

What’s on offer?

An information evening to explore exhibits about hearing, looking after our brain and cochlear implants. There will be a presentation with a guest speaker followed by an interactive panel discussion led by questions from the audience. 
 
At the exhibits you will discover more about the world of hearing, cochlear implants and brain health. You will be able to explore everyday noises, find out what sounds might be damaging our ears and the things we can do to protect, preserve, and support our hearing health as we move through life. You will also be able to find out more about local community groups and services related to hearing and brain health.
 
Participants will get the chance to hear about people’s experiences of changes in hearing and brain health, deafness, and cochlear implants from the people with lived experience alongside professionals in the field.

What’s it about?

Hearing loss affects up to 11 million people in the UK. It is often seen as something that just happens with age. Poorly managed or untreated hearing loss is associated with poorer outcomes in education and employment, and can be detrimental to a person’s mental, emotional, and physical health. It increases the risk of depression and is the biggest, modifiable risk factor for dementia. 
 
Hearing loss is perceived as a minor and inevitable inconvenience, hearing aids are seen as something for much older adults, and the understanding of how and when to access hearing health care is limited, and then tricky to navigate once inside the healthcare system. 
 
Early intervention, use of personal protective equipment, hearing tests and the uptake of hearing aids and cochlear implants could reduce the otherwise detrimental effects of loss of hearing and improve quality of life. Despite effective interventions being available there is poor awareness and a reluctance to engage with them. 
 
We have been engaging with communities in Southampton to meet people where they are, to listen and spark conversations around hearing and brain health. We have seen the value of this and want to continue these conversations at this event. 
 
This event will draw together, share, and explore some of the learning through research that has been gleaned from working with members of local community groups in the community and from the lived experience of members of ALL_EARS our hearing loss PPIE group. You will have the opportunity to talk to professionals in the field of hearing and brain health, alongside speak to and hear from people with real life, lived experience of hearing and brain health.

Who’s leading the event?

Dr Kate Hough, Research Fellow
Dr Tracey Newman,  Professor

Open to

All people are welcome.

Of particular interest to

People with lived experience of changes in hearing and brain health. 

Event booking deadline