One in four people aged 65 to 74—and half of those 75 and older—have some degree of hearing loss. Yet less than one in five adults who need hearing aids actually wear them. That may soon change. On October 17, it became legal to sell hearing aids without a prescription. Here’s what to know about hearing loss, hearing aids, and what may protect your hearing.
What can keep your ears in good working order? Limiting loud noise—from headphones, rock concerts, lawnmowers, power tools, etc.—is step one. But researchers are also looking for other ways to protect your inner ears.