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Summer Sounds Increase Hearing Loss and Tinnitus
by Nola Aronson
Exposure to loud noise can cause hearing loss that often takes the form of temporary or permanent tinnitus. Particular to each person, tinnitus is described as a buzzing, whistling, whining or screeching noise in the head or ears that varies in intensity and can be intermittent or constant.

Inside the ear are small, delicate hairs that help conduct the noise that constitutes your hearing. Sudden or prolonged exposure to loud noises can injure these hair cells and increase the risk of tinnitus. As we head outdoors to enjoy all the sounds of another spectacular summer, think of the hair cells within your ears and take care!
Protecting your hearing this summer can be as simple as wearing earplugs when mowing, attending concerts, working with machinery or engaging in other noisy activities. The staff at Advanced Audiology can provide you with custom-fitted protective molds for your ears. A custom fit means more comfort and increased hearing protection.

For more information about tinnitus and the latest research, visit www.scvadvancedaudiology.com and click on the "News" section listed under "Hearing Resources." 877-4555

Prescription Safety for Seniors
Seniors often take multiple medications and it's easy to become confused about the dosages, times, interactions and side effects. Family caregivers can help by ensuring that the prescriptions are filled by the same pharmacy and that regular medications are in a pill reminder box. All medications - prescription, over the counter and vitamins and nutritional supplements should be reviewed at medical appointments. Expired or unnecessary medications should be disposed of. When family caregivers are unavailable, consider automatic medication dispensers or a hired caregiver to help monitor medications.

If you suspect that your older loved one is having difficulty with their medications, contact Visiting Angels to receive a free medication tracking chart and pill reminder box. 263-2273

Medicine Management Tips
• Clear out all old and/or expired medications. Put them all in a bag and take them to your local sheriff's office, where they have boxes set aside for drug disposal.
• Make a list of all current medications and a schedule chart. Include dosages and times they must be taken.
• Continue to check in with a pharmacist to make sure there are no possible drug interactions with other meds.
Home Instead Senior Care 254-8701