iStock 88648193 LARGEThe success of The Silent Child, a British production about a profoundly deaf child which won best live-action short film at Sunday’s Oscars, has helped to raise awareness of deafness and hearing loss worldwide.

Rachel Shenton, who wrote and starred in the film, was inspired by her father who went deaf after receiving treatment for chemotherapy when she was 12.

In her acceptance speech, which she also signed, Rachel said, "Deafness is a silent disability. You can't see it and it's not life threatening so I want to say the biggest of thank yous to the Academy for allowing us to put this in front of a mainstream audience."

Early warning sign

Our hearing is something most of us take for granted. But just like our eyesight it can change over time, so it’s important to make regular hearing checks part of a healthy lifestyle.

Hearing loss can sometimes be an early warning sign of other health conditions, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

Research has found that hearing loss is more than twice as common in people with diabetes than in non-diabetics. And studies have also shown that inadequate blood flow, and trauma to the blood vessels of the inner ear, can contribute to hearing loss.

Having diabetes can double the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. And every day in the UK 420 people lose their lives to cardiovascular disease. Being proactive about your hearing could seriously benefit your overall health.

Reduce risk of dementia

People with hearing loss are more likely to be at risk of cognitive decline and developing dementia. There is strong evidence that mild hearing loss doubles the risk of developing dementia, with moderate hearing loss leading to three times the risk, and severe hearing loss five times the risk.

Further evidence suggests that proper diagnosis and management of hearing loss, including the use of hearing aids, can reduce the risk and impact of dementia. It can also help to prevent some other associated issues, such as falls and depression.

Improve balance and mood

As we get older, our risk of serious injury due to a fall increases. Your balance and gait are impacted by your ability to hear. Your hearing is essential to your awareness of your environment. Because of this, hearing loss can cause you to be less aware of what’s around you and more prone to falling.

People who suffer from hearing loss often find it difficult to communicate. In social settings, this can cause stress and fatigue. And over time, these feelings can lead to withdrawal, isolation and loneliness.

Evidence suggests that proper diagnosis and management of hearing loss, including the use of hearing aids, can boost social inclusion and enjoyment of life.

Be proactive

If the publicity around The Silent Child’s Oscar win has got you thinking about your own hearing, or that of someone close to you, it might be time to book a hearing assessment.

Mary Hare Hearing Centre's comprehensive, free initial assessments are carried out by their highly qualified audiologists. It takes 90 minutes and includes; a review of your hearing health, a thorough inspection of your ears, the hearing test, a complete explanation of your test results and advice on your next steps.

What's more, by choosing Mary Hare Hearing Centre you'll be supporting deaf children like the 6 year old star of The Silent Child, Maisie Sly, as 50% of our profits go to Mary Hare School for deaf children.

Contact us to book your appointment on 01635 523 343 or email us at newburycentre@maryhare.org.uk