May is Speech and Hearing Month—a time to raise awareness about communication health and the essential role it plays in healthy aging.
As we grow older, our ability to communicate—both speaking and hearing—can change. These shifts may seem subtle at first: asking people to repeat themselves more often, turning up the TV volume, or finding it harder to follow conversations in noisy environments. But over time, untreated hearing loss and speech difficulties can have a significant impact on our quality of life.
Why speech and hearing matter more than ever
Hearing and speech aren’t just about exchanging information—they help us stay connected to the people and activities we love. When these senses start to decline, we may begin to feel isolated, frustrated, or less confident in social situations.
Hearing loss is linked to:
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety
- Greater social isolation
- Cognitive decline and a higher risk of dementia
- Reduced safety and awareness (e.g., not hearing alarms or traffic)
Similarly, speech and language challenges—often related to strokes, Parkinson’s disease, or other health conditions—can affect our ability to express ourselves clearly, making everyday interactions more difficult.
The good news? There are supports available
The earlier we recognize changes in speech or hearing, the better. Audiologists and speech-language pathologists are trained to help older adults preserve and enhance their communication abilities. They can assess an individual’s needs, offer personalized treatment plans, and recommend helpful tools—from hearing aids and communication strategies to voice exercises and therapy.
Here are a few things you can do to support your speech and hearing health:
- Book regular hearing tests, especially if you're over 60
- Use hearing aids if prescribed—and wear them consistently
- Stay socially active and engage in conversations to keep communication skills sharp
- Protect your hearing by reducing exposure to loud noises
- Seek help early if you notice changes in your speech, voice, or swallowing
Speech and Hearing Month is the perfect time to check in on your communication health. Don’t wait until it's a major issue—early intervention can make a world of difference.
You deserve to hear, be heard, and stay connected—at every age.
To learn more about speech and hearing, read through our resources below.
