Sponsored by the American Heart Association, Move More Month in April is a great time to start incorporating more physical activity into your life.
While staying active is essential for everyone, it’s especially crucial for hearing loss patients. That’s because recent studies supported by the National Institute on Aging have found that when compared to people with normal hearing, individuals with hearing loss are:
- More likely to be sedentary. The more severe the hearing loss, the more likely it was that a study participant was inactive for longer during the day.
- More likely to be in poorer physical condition. Study participants with hearing loss had worse scores for physical function, balance and walking speed and a faster rate of physical decline.
One Bright Spot: Hearing Aid Use
One of the studies examined the impact of hearing loss treatment on the participants’ health. It found that people who wore hearing aids had better walking endurance than those with hearing loss who didn’t wear devices.
What You Can Do
Simply move more each day! Not sure where to start? Here are some easy ideas to try today:
- Start Small: Take a 10-minute walk, gradually increasing the duration over time.
- Stretch Regularly: Gentle stretching can improve your flexibility and circulation.
- Join a Class or Sports Team: A world of fun activities awaits you, from yoga to pickleball.
- Use Technology: Fitness apps or videos give you instant access to guided workouts at home.
What Our Staff Is Doing
In honor of Move More Month, our staff is completing a step challenge from April 13 to May 13! Three teams, each made up of three staff members, will compete to see who can log the most steps. The team with the highest total step count will receive a prize, along with the improvements in health, mood and sleep that may come with regular exercise.
If you’re feeling inspired to complete a step challenge of your own, now’s the time to do it!
Another smart move you can make during Move More Month? Ensure you treat any hearing loss sooner rather than later. Call us now to schedule an appointment.
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