The sound of staying connected
Never miss a note: Sharon Shannon has teamed up with Specsavers to encourage people to get their hearing checked
We Irish are known to be a nation of talkers, storytellers, and musicians - famed for our wit and deep cultural connection to sound - and yet we often take our ability to listen for granted, caught up in sharing the next joke or anecdote and perhaps not appreciating how each builds on the moment before. We forget that hearing is about so much more than sound, says Hetty Fjordova, audiology director at Specsavers Ireland.
“It’s about connection, whether it’s conversations with loved ones, laughter with friends, or hearing a grandchild’s voice, good hearing helps us stay engaged in the moments that matter most and maintain our quality of life.”
For renowned Irish musician Sharon Shannon, who has teamed up with Specsavers, her ability to hear and understand a tune underpins her ability to perform and connect with her audience. “As a musician, music is my life, my passion, and my connection to the world,” she says. “I understand more than anyone that to fully appreciate music, clear hearing is essential.”
The connection between hearing changes and loss of connection may not immediately come to mind but it is echoed in new research, which shows 95 per cent of Irish adults agree that good hearing is vital for social connection. In addition, the same research shows that almost 60 per cent of them admit to ‘nodding along’ in conversations they cannot hear, while 45 per cent say hearing difficulties have actively stolen the joy from social gatherings, and 23 per cent admit they have never had a hearing check.
Hetty explains that ignoring changes to your hearing can make conversations tiring and frustrating - causing people to withdraw from social situations and, in time, affect their confidence, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
Explaining why hearing loss can be hard for us to acknowledge, she says: “Changes in hearing are usually very gradual, so many people adapt without realising it. They often think others are mumbling or blame background noise, rather than recognising that their own hearing has changed.”
Pointing out the flags that may be signaling you need to book a hearing check, Hetty says: “Some of the first signs include asking people to repeat themselves, turning the television up louder than others prefer, struggling to hear in busy places, or feeling exhausted after conversations. These are all good reasons to have your hearing checked.”
In response to these statistics, the hearing experts Specsavers Ireland has teamed up with Sharon Shannon to help the nation manage hearing changes while rediscovering the joy of music and connection through better hearing.
“We shouldn’t let missed melodies or quiet conversations keep us from enjoying life’s experiences,” says Sharon. “I am incredibly proud to partner with Specsavers to champion hearing health and break down the stigma surrounding a change in hearing.
For Hetty, it’s family and friends who often hold the key to identify early hearing changes as these are the people who may notice a loved one’s behaviour change before they notice it themselves.
“Family and friends often notice the signs first, such as needing things repeated, misunderstanding conversations, increasing the TV volume, or avoiding noisy environments. If you or someone close to you notices these changes, it’s worth booking a hearing check. Early assessment provides reassurance and, if needed, allows us to offer support before it can impact everyday life.
“The biggest misconception is that changes in hearing only affect older people. Hearing changes can happen at any age, and getting your hearing checked early can make a significant difference to your long-term hearing health and quality of life.”
Speaking about Sharon Shannon’s involvement in encouraging people to get their hearing checked, Hetty says: “We see firsthand the lonely and isolating impact a change in hearing can have on a person. When people start to ‘nod along’ with conversations, feel unable to participate, and begin to avoid social gatherings like music sessions and gigs, it’s time to take action. We’re delighted to partner with Sharon Shannon to highlight the importance of clear hearing for all social interactions, whether it be at your local pub enjoying live music, at a gig, or simply enjoying social events with family and friends.”
If your hearing has changed, or you’re missing parts of life’s melody, book a free hearing check with a Specsavers hearing expert. With nationwide coverage, same-day appointments, and options for PRSI benefits for hearing devices, prioritising your hearing health has never been easier. Stay connected to the things that matter most. Book a hearing check today
