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The dos and don’ts of caring for your hearing aids

<p>Proper care and maintenance of your hearing aids is important. It will ensure you to get the most out of your aids, prevent problems and maintain optimum hearing conditions. Here are some guidelines to help you care for them.</p> <p><strong>DO</strong>: clean your hearing aids regularly with a dry cloth or tissue.</p> <p><strong>DON’T</strong>: get your hearing aids wet. That means no wearing them in the shower or when swimming. If they happen to get wet, dry it off immediately.</p> <p><strong>DO</strong>: put your hearing aids in their case when you’re not using them</p> <p><strong>DON’T</strong>: wear your aids when using aftershave, hairspray, perfume, sunscreen, insect repellent and so on. They contain chemicals that could damage it. Allow time for drying before putting back on hearing aids.</p> <p><strong>DO</strong>: use a moisture protection kit/anti-humidity kit. They help with moisture problems (which can affect performance of hearing aids) and extend life of hearing aids.</p> <p><strong>DO</strong>: keep out of reach of pets and visiting grandkids. Dogs have been known to chew them up and if swallowed by either pet or grandkid, can be very dangerous.</p> <p><strong>DON’T</strong>: expose your device to extreme heats. Don’t leave them in a parked car, near a heater or wear while using a hairdryer. </p> <p><strong>DO</strong>: Store your hearing aid in a safe place that's dry and cool.</p> <p><strong>DON’T</strong>: leave your hearing aids switched on when you’re not using them.</p> <p><strong>DO</strong>: change batteries often so you won’t be stuck with aids that have suddenly run out of power.</p> <p><strong>DON’T</strong>: ever insert anything into the sound outlet as it could damage the receiver. If you can’t clean it properly, ask your hearing professional.</p> <p><strong>DO</strong>: remove any earwax that gets into your hearing aid. It could cause permanent damage.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p>

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How to fall asleep without sleeping pills: 7 natural sleep aids that actually work

<p>It’s 3am and you’re suddenly wide awake. Try these seven science-backed strategies to fall back to sleep fast.</p> <p><strong>Give meditation a try </strong></p> <p>As a mindfulness coach, I’m very aware of the day-to-day anxieties and worries that can interfere with a good night’s sleep. One of the most effective natural sleep aids is a quick meditation session to ease yourself out of those stresses. If you’ve never meditated before, you’ll likely find the meditation interrupted by thoughts flashing through your mind.</p> <p>It’s important for you to know that this isn’t a failure on your part, and that you aren’t doing anything wrong. Thinking is just what the brain does, as naturally as lungs take in air. The point is to be non-judgmental yet aware of your thoughts, bodily experiences and breath, moment by moment.</p> <p><strong>Stop wanting to fall asleep</strong></p> <p>It’s counterintuitive, isn’t it? Sometimes trying too hard to do something is the very thing that prevents us from achieving it – and that’s never more true than when it comes to falling asleep. Desperately wanting to sleep will only stoke anxieties that will further stress your brain, essentially feeding it the message that it’s not safe to sleep.</p> <p>Throw in those worries about your to-do list at work the following day, and the whole thing can snowball into a panic attack. Try letting go of that feeling that you absolutely must sleep now, and observe your own anxieties for what they are without judgment. When you stop looking at sleep as a goal, you’ll find it easier to fall asleep.</p> <p><strong>Start a journal </strong></p> <p>If you find yourself struggling to fall asleep, pick up a pen and paper (not your phone!), and start writing: simply scribble down an account of what’s going on inside your head. Although there’s no “right” way to journal, you might start by listing the events of your day, and from there, how those events and encounters made you feel.</p> <p>Building this structured picture of your thoughts may help you see that the problem that’s keeping you up at night, and is likely less overwhelming than you thought. Why my insistence on a pen and paper? First off, studies show the simple motor action that’s involved in the act of handwriting has a calming effect. Secondly, the light emitted by laptops and phones isn’t conducive to falling asleep.</p> <p><strong>Find yourself a "3am friend"</strong></p> <p>Some of us are lucky to have a ‘3am friend’, that close confidant you can call up in the wee hours knowing that they won’t hold it against you in the morning. Although it’s great to have someone to talk to when you want to fall asleep, it’s important that the conversation doesn’t just rehash the anxieties that are preventing you from catching shut-eye in the first place.</p> <p>Rather than using the call to seek solutions for those issues, talk about things that calm your nerves, or even have them assist you in deep breathing. It may sound silly, but doing a series of deep, relaxing breaths can help you let go of the troubles that are keeping you wide awake.</p> <p><strong>Take a warm shower</strong></p> <p>Taking a warm shower not only relaxes your muscles and soothes minor aches and pains, but it also raises your core body temperature. As soon as you step out of the shower, your body starts working at lowering that temperature, which is something that normally happens when you’re falling asleep naturally.</p> <p>(That’s why we always feel the need for a blanket when we sleep, no matter how warm it is!) By kick-starting that temperature-lowering process, you’re tricking your body into falling asleep fast.</p> <p><strong>Stretch yourself to sleep </strong></p> <p>Anxiety keeping you up? Research suggests mild stretching can help take the edge off and relax muscles that have become stiff and sore after a long day. We’re not talking intricate yoga poses or acrobatics here, either: Simple stretches like an overhead arm stretch and bending over to touch your toes should do the trick. Ramp up the relaxation potential with a soundtrack of ambient noise at a volume that’s just barely audible.</p> <p>There are plenty of white noise apps that are free to download, but soft music can work as well (so long as there are no lyrics). Just remember, if you’re using an electronic device to play these sleep-promoting sounds, make sure it’s placed screen-down so you’re not distracted by the light it emits.</p> <p><strong>Read (or listen!) to something new</strong></p> <p>When you’re struggling with insomnia, it might be tempting to pull an old favourite off the bookshelf. In reality, it’s better to read or listen to an audio book that covers a topic on which you know absolutely nothing. New information, while taking attention away from the stressors that are keeping you up at night, gives your brain enough of a workout to make it tire more quickly than when it’s engaged with familiar subjects and concepts.</p> <p>Again, if it’s an audio book or podcast you’re listening to, make sure the light-emitting side of the device is face down to keep the room as dark as possible. Darkness and warmth play an essential part in the production and maintenance of melatonin, the hormone that plays the central role falling asleep.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article by Deepak Kashyap </em><em>originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/conditions/sleep/how-to-fall-asleep-without-sleeping-pills-7-natural-sleep-aids-that-actually-work" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

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What if there was a hearing aid that understood your listening intentions?

<div class="page" title="Page 1"> <div class="section"> <div class="layoutArea"> <div class="column">Hearing conversations in noisy environments can be especially hard for people with impaired hearing. Unfortunately, traditional hearing aids adopt a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to processing sounds, regardless of the listening needs of individual users. This may make listening and engaging with others more difficult. Users may also experience a lack of sound clarity and be reluctant to engage in conversations with others.</div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column">Hearing aid manufacturer <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oticon</a> is taking the next important step on the journey to solve the No.1 challenge for people with hearing loss – hearing speech in noise<sup>2</sup>. With new groundbreaking 4D Sensor technology, <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users/hearing-aids/products/intent" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oticon Intent</a> is capable of understanding the user’s listening intentions by recognising what they want and need to listen to, in order to deliver truly personalised support.</div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column"><strong style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">The Brain And Sound</strong></div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Our ears gather the sounds around us, but the true hero in sound processing is the brain, as it is constantly working to make sense of sound. Oticon uses their BrainHearing</span><sup style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">TM</sup><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> philosophy to develop technology that provides the brain with access to the full sound environment.</span></div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">The latest </span><a style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;" href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users/hearing-loss/understand-hearing-loss/how-hearing-works" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BrainHearing<sup>TM</sup></a><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;"> insights reveal that people’s communication behaviour reflects their listening needs and intentions at a given moment via head and body movements. In conversation, users tend to keep their heads still to engage with a single person or move their heads in a group conversation to engage with different people. When struggling to hear what someone is saying, users are likely to lean in to listen.</span></div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">The technology in Oticon Intent understands and adapts to the user through sensors that monitor head and body movements, conversation activity and the acoustic environment. Oticon Intent helps users move beyond just hearing and listening, helping them to communicate and fully engage in life.</span></div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column"><strong style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">Ease Of Communication</strong></div> <div class="column"> </div> <div class="column"><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">In challenging, noisy environments, Oticon Intent makes it possible to:</span></p> <div class="page" title="Page 1"> <div class="section"> <div class="layoutArea"> <div class="column"> <ul> <li>Move through a crowd with seamless awareness, while orienting to the surrounding sounds.</li> <li>Begin chatting with a group of people, thanks to heightened access to voices and balanced background sounds so they are not intrusive, while still accessible.</li> <li>Start an intimate conversation with one person, easily hearing the speaker’s voice amid the noise all around.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50989" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2024/03/Oticon_Intent_HA_In_Hand_Hero3_KC_1321_Expires_On_2_8_2029_1280.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><strong>Engage More In Life</strong></p> <p>“If you have a hearing loss, you can actually protect your brain from cognitive decline by using active hearing aids which enable you to connect with others and let you engage in life to the fullest,” says Thomas Behrens, Vice President of Audiology at Oticon. “You can also enjoy future-proof, next- generation connectivity technology, crafted into the smallest form factor we have designed to date within this category.”</p> <p><strong>Open Up The Digital World</strong></p> <p>Offering easy connection to compatible smart devices through Bluetooth® Low Energy technology, Oticon Intent also enables users to engage in the digital world like never before. It allows a detailed, high-quality sound experience for hands-free calls and delivers direct streaming of music, audio book and much more<sup>3</sup>.</p> <p>With up to 20 hours of battery life, users will never have to worry about running out of battery. When they need a recharge, they’d simply drop the hearing aids into the charger for just 30 minutes for up to 8 hours of battery life<sup>4</sup>.</p> <p>Your hearing matters. Take a step towards better hearing by contacting your nearest <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/hearing-aid-users/find-audiologist" target="_blank" rel="noopener">hearing care professional</a>. To explore this revolutionary hearing aid that helps users to engage in life like never before, visit <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz/oticon-intent" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.oticon.co.nz/oticon-intent</a></p> <p>For more information and to find your nearest hearing clinic, visit <a href="https://www.oticon.co.nz" target="_blank" rel="noopener">oticon.co.nz</a></p> <p><em>*4D Sensor technology only available in Oticon Intent 1 &amp; 2. [</em><em>2.] Jorgensen, L., &amp; Novak, M. (2020). Factors Influencing Hearing Aid Adoption. Seminars in hearing, 41(1), 6–20. [3.] Hands-free communication is available on select devices. See which hearing aids and devices are compatible here: oticon.co.nz/compatibility. [</em><em>4.] Expected use time for rechargeable battery depends on use pattern, active feature set, hearing loss, sound environment, battery age and use of wireless accessories.</em></p> <p><em>Images: Supplied.</em></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with Oticon.</em></p>

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How satellites, radar and drones are tracking meteorites and aiding Earth’s asteroid defence

<p>On July 31 2013 a <a href="https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/fireballs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">constellation of US defence satellites</a> saw a streak of light over South Australia as a rock from outer space burned through Earth’s atmosphere on its way to crash into the ground below.</p> <p>The impact created an explosion equivalent to about 220 tonnes of TNT. More than 1,500km away, in Tasmania, the bang was heard by detectors normally used to listen for <a href="https://www.dfat.gov.au/international-relations/security/asno/Pages/australian-ims-stations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">extremely low-frequency sounds</a> from illegal tests of nuclear weapons.</p> <p>These were two excellent indications that there should be a patch of ground covered in meteorites somewhere north of Port Augusta. But how could we track them down?</p> <p>My colleagues and I who work on the <a href="https://dfn.gfo.rocks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Desert Fireball Network (DFN)</a>, which tracks incoming asteroids and <a href="https://dfn.gfo.rocks/meteorites.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the resulting meteorites</a>, had a couple of ideas: weather radar and drones.</p> <p><strong>Eyes in space</strong></p> <p>Finding meteorites is not an easy task. There is a network of high-quality ground-based sensors called the <a href="https://gfo.rocks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Global Fireball Observatory</a>, but it only covers about 1% of the planet.</p> <p>The <a href="https://cneos.jpl.nasa.gov/fireballs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">US satellite data</a> published by NASA covers a much larger area than ground-based detectors, but it only picks up the biggest fireballs. What’s more, they <a href="https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/483/4/5166/5256650" target="_blank" rel="noopener">don’t always give an accurate idea of the meteor’s trajectory</a>.</p> <p>So, to have any chance to find a meteorite from these data, you need a little outside help.</p> <p><strong>Weather radars</strong></p> <p>In 2019, Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology started making its weather radar data <a href="https://www.openradar.io/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">openly available</a> to researchers and the public. I saw this as an opportunity to complete the puzzle.</p> <p>I combed through the record of events from the Desert Fireball Network and NASA, and cross-matched them with nearby weather radars. Then I looked for unusual radar signatures that could indicate the presence of falling meteorites.</p> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=334&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=334&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=334&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=420&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=420&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496384/original/file-20221121-22-iwtkve.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=420&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="An annoyed aerial photo showing the locations of the Woomera radar station and the falling meteorites." /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">The Woomera weather radar station captured reflections from the falling meteorites.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Curtin University</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure> <p>And bingo, the 2013 event was not too far from the Woomera radar station. The weather was clear, and the radar record showed some small reflections at about the right place and time.</p> <p>Next, I had to use the weather data to figure out how the wind would have pushed the meteorites around on their way down to Earth.</p> <p>If I got the calculations right, I would have a treasure map showing the location of a rich haul of meteorites. If I got them wrong, I would end up sending my team to wander around in the desert for two weeks for nothing.</p> <p><strong>The search</strong></p> <p>I gave what I hoped was an accurate treasure map to my colleague Andy Tomkins from Monash University. In September this year, he happened to be driving past the site on his way back from an expedition in the Nullarbor.</p> <p>Thankfully, Andy found the first meteorite within 10 minutes of looking. In the following two hours, his team found nine more.</p> <figure class="align-center "><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496385/original/file-20221121-16-he3p7h.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="Photo of several people walking through a desert field looking at the ground." /><figcaption><span class="caption">A field team from Monash University searched for meteorites in the strewn field.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Monash University</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure> <p>The technique of finding meteorites with weather radars <a href="https://ares.jsc.nasa.gov/meteorite-falls/how-to-find-meteorites/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">was pioneered</a> by my colleague Marc Fries in the US. However, this is the first time it has been done outside the US NEXRAD radar network. (When it comes to monitoring airspace, the US has more powerful and more densely packed tech than anyone else.)</p> <p>This first search confirmed there were lots of meteorites on the ground. But how were we going to find them all?</p> <p>That’s where the drones come in. We used a method developed by my colleague Seamus Anderson to <a href="https://gfo.rocks/blog/2022/03/14/First_Meteorite_Found_with_Drone.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">automatically detect meteorites from drone images</a>.</p> <p>In the end we collected 44 meteorites, weighing a bit over 4kg in total. Together they form what we call a “strewn field”.</p> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=400&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/496386/original/file-20221121-13-qssltc.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=503&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="An aerial view of a desert field with a black dot (a meteorite) highlighted by a yellow square." /></a><figcaption><span class="caption">A machine-learning algorithm identified meteorites from drone photos.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Curtin Uni</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></figcaption></figure> <p>Strewn fields <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/maps.13892" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tell us a lot</a> about how an asteroid fragments in our atmosphere.</p> <p>That’s quite important to know, because the energy of these things is comparable to that of nuclear weapons. For example, the 17-metre asteroid that exploded over Chelyabinsk in Russia in 2013 produced an explosion 30 times the size of the bomb dropped on Hiroshima in 1945.</p> <p>So when the next big one is about to hit, it may be useful to predict how it will deposit its energy in our atmosphere.</p> <p>With new telescopes and better technology, we are starting to see some asteroids <a href="https://skymapper.anu.edu.au/news/great-balls-fire/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">before they hit Earth</a>. We will see even more when projects such as the <a href="https://www.lsst.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Vera Rubin Observatory</a> and the <a href="https://atlas.fallingstar.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System (ATLAS)</a> are up and running.</p> <p>These systems might give us as much as a few days’ notice that an asteroid is heading for Earth. This would be too late to make any effort to deflect it – but plenty of time for preparation and damage control on the ground.</p> <p><strong>The value of open data</strong></p> <p>This find was only made possible by the free availability of crucial data – and the people who made it available.</p> <p>The US satellites that detected the fireball are presumably there to detect missile and rocket launches. However, somebody (I don’t know who) must have figured out how to publish some of the satellite data without giving away too much about their capabilities, and then lobbied hard to get the data released.</p> <p>Likewise, the find would not have happened without the work of Joshua Soderholm at Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology, who worked to make low-level weather radar data openly accessible for other uses. Soderholm went to the trouble to make the radar data <a href="https://www.go-fair.org/fair-principles/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">readily available and easy to use</a>, which goes well beyond the vague formulations you can read at the bottom of scientific papers like “data available upon reasonable request”.</p> <p>There is no shortage of fireballs to track down. Right now, we’re on the hunt for a meteorite that was spotted in space last weekend before <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/19/science/fireball-asteroid-toronto-new-york.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">blazing through the sky over Ontario, Canada</a>.<img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/194997/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /></p> <p><em>Writen by Hadrien Devillepoix. Republished with permission from <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-satellites-radar-and-drones-are-tracking-meteorites-and-aiding-earths-asteroid-defence-194997" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: NASA</em></p>

Technology

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What to do if your hearing aids get wet

<p>Like most electronic devices hearing aids should be kept clear of water but if you do happen to forget to take them off before showering or jumping in the pool, here’s what you should do if your aids get wet.</p> <p>The first step is to switch off your hearing aids and remove the battery. Keeping a wet battery inside your aid can further damage the device so it’s best to throw out waterlogged batteries. However, if that’s not an option carefully dry the battery with a cloth. For the hearing aids, here are some home methods to drying them:</p> <ul> <li>Shake the hearing aids with the battery compartment open to remove any excess water. Leave aids on newspaper to air dry indoors for at least a day.</li> <li>Place wet hearing aids near a lamp can speed up drying process, but do not place too close to light bulb as too much heat can damaged the device.</li> <li>Stick hearing aids into a container of uncooked rice or silica gel. Seal container and leave overnight. Both rice and silica gel can work as a dehumidifier and soak up water.</li> <li>Use a fan or hairdryer on the lowest setting. Only use hairdryer if it has a “cool” setting.</li> <li>Do not ever use high heat to dry the aids like an oven or microwave.</li> </ul> <p>If the above suggestions do not work, contact your hearing aid provider. Your hearing aids aren’t necessarily damaged beyond repair and your hearing aid provider can talk to you about options.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Hearing

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“Don’t touch the bag”: Former Obama staff member reprimanded by Queen’s aid

<p>Barack Obama’s former Chief of Protocol has revealed the extreme lengths Queen’s staff go to in order to protect her privacy.</p> <p>Capricia Penavic Marshall worked for former President Obama from 2009 to 2013 and her role meant she advised him on all matters of national and international diplomatic protocol.</p> <p>She also recalled to <strong><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://people.com/politics/capricia-penavic-marshall-new-book-remembers-trying-take-queen-elizabeth-purse/" target="_blank">People</a> </em></strong>the embarrassing moment she was scolded for trying to help the royal with her purse during an official visit to Buckingham Palace in 2011. </p> <p>After stepping forward to assist the Queen with her bag so that she could greet the Obamas without it, Marshall, 56, says her British counterpart quickly pushed her back and told her simply: “We do not touch the bag.”</p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7836673/queen.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/79d44520f5384eb18817bb6ddbc449b6" /></p> <p><em>Michelle Obama, Barack Obama, Queen Elizabeth. </em></p> <p>“As Her Majesty walked out, I made a comment to my counterpart. I said, ‘Oh, my goodness, Her Majesty has her bag.’ And I made an ever so slight move with my left foot,” she recalled. </p> <p>“He, with both of his hands, pushed me back against the wall and said, ‘Do not touch the bag,’ and I said, ‘Oh, my goodness. I'm so sorry.’” </p> <p>The unnamed royal staffer reiterated his point again, saying no one was to ever touch the Queen’s bag.</p> <p>“He goes, ‘We do not touch the bag.’ And I said, ‘Okay, I apologize. I would never. But do we know what's in the bag?’ And he said, ‘We don't know what's in the bag. But we never touch the bag,'” she revealed. </p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7836672/queen-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/fb25d221d26e4870a22bd919086447da" /></p> <p><em>Capricia Penavic Marshall</em></p> <p>In Marshall’s new book, <em>Protocol: The Power of Diplomacy and How to Make It Work for You</em>, she said she actually learned Her Majesty actually uses her bag as a means of signalling to her staff.</p> <p>“If it's on one part of her arm, it means the meeting is going fine, leave me alone. But if she lowers it, it means, ‘End this now. I want to go,'” Marshall explained.</p> <p>Despite the awkward moment that could have gone terrible wrong, Marshall says the visit was a huge success and noted that the former President Obama and his wife Michelle were “so, so very fond” of the royal.</p>

International Travel

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Former aide reveals Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother’s “strained relationship”

<p>While it may seem as though the details of the Royal Family’s life is information readily available at the public’s disposal, it can be difficult to<span> </span><em>really<span> </span></em>know what goes on behind closed doors. </p> <p>However, it has become a custom for a former employee or insider to come forward with interesting information we might not have guessed without their stories or experiences.</p> <p>This has been the case with Queen Elizabeth’s longtime dresser, Angela Kelly, and more recently Lady Anne Glenconner in her new memoir. </p> <p>Glenconner served as a lady-in-waiting to Princess Margaret for many years and developed a close relationship, she described in<span> </span><em>Lady in Waiting: My Extraordinary Life in the Shadow of the Crown. </em></p> <p>In her own words, Glenconner described personal experiences and interactions she shared serving under and alongside the Royal Family. </p> <p>In the memoir, the former lady-in-waiting spoke on Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother, who buy her own accounts, “had a slightly strained relationship.”</p> <p>"Those weekends at Royal Lodge were always fun, despite the bouts of bickering between the Queen Mother and Princess Margaret,” she said, per<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1203465/lady-glenconner-princess-margaret-queen-mother-strained-relationship-spt" target="_blank"><em>Express</em></a></p> <p>"One would do things like open all the windows, only for the other to go around shutting them. Or one would suggest an idea and the other would dismiss it immediately."</p> <p>Glenconner speculated they didn’t get along all the time because they might have been “too similar.”</p> <p>“...I don’t think it is an unusual predicament for a mother and daughter," she wrote. </p> <p>Referring to the family’s loss of King George VI, and the “figurative” loss of Queen Elizabeth, who assumed the throne after her father died, Glenconner said: "And while they had been part of a foursome originally, they were left as the spare pair, to a certain extent."</p> <p>The former royal employee also wrote about a conversation she shared with Princess Margaret. </p> <p>After noting the royal looked upset at her sister’s coronation, the Princess replied: "Of course I looked sad, Anne. </p> <p>“I had just lost my beloved father and, really, I had just lost my sister, because she was going to be so busy and had already moved to Buckingham Palace, so it was just me and the Queen Mother."</p> <p>Scroll through the gallery to see Princess Margaret with the Queen Mother throughout the years of their life.</p>

Relationships

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"You can't teach stupid": Folau receives more funds in two days than farmers' rural aid in one year

<div> <div class="replay"> <div class="reply_body body linkify"> <div class="reply_body"> <div class="body_text "> <p>A Facebook post by <em>The NRL Roast </em>criticising those who donated to Israel Folau’s legal battle has gone viral in just 24 hours.</p> <p>The post highlighted donations given to the Rural Aid <em>Buy a Bale </em>campaign raised in one year matched the money raised for controversial Folau’s legal battle against the Rugby League Association.</p> <p>“In 2 days, Israel Folau has received more in donations than Rural Aid's "Buy a Bale" campaign did in the 2017/2018 financial year,” the post began.</p> <p>“Folau may or may not be in the right in regard to why he got sacked and has every right to launch legal action.</p> <p>“That’s not my gripe.</p> <p>“It's the fact that every day Aussies would rather donate their hard earned, already taxed money, to a multi-millionaire professional athlete who can use the funds however he wants...TAX FREE, while people who actually make a worthwhile contribution to society, and our communities, are left in the lurch.</p> <p>“But you can’t teach stupid… You are just born that way.”</p> <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTheNRLRoast%2Fphotos%2Fa.248365635620899%2F729888714135253%2F%3Ftype%3D3&amp;width=500" width="500" height="435" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe> <p>Folau has raised $2.2 million in just two days by 20,000 people.</p> <p>Since then, the fundraiser, which is located on the Australian Christian Lobby’s website, has been paused – a little less than $1 million short of the sacked rugby star’s $3 million goal.</p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BzATb_Wn3I_/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BzATb_Wn3I_/" target="_blank">A post shared by Israel Folau (@izzyfolau)</a> on Jun 22, 2019 at 1:07am PDT</p> </div> </blockquote> <p>The ACL said the donations, which opened on Tuesday, had been “overwhelming".</p> <p>“ACL, Izzy and everyone involved is humbled and grateful. We are hitting the pause button. But if the case drags on and Israel needs more support, we will re-open this campaign,” a statement on the website said.</p> <p>The original campaign on GoFundMe was shut down after it was determined they had violated the site’s terms of service.  </p> <p>“We are absolutely committed to the fight for equality for LGBTIQ+ people and fostering an environment of inclusivity,” Nicola Britton, GoFundMe’s Australian regional director said.</p> <p>Managing director of the ACL, Martin Iles, confirmed any money raised in the $3 million campaign will exclusively be used to meet Folau’s legal costs.</p> <p>In a poll conducted by Over60 with over 5,200 votes, it was determined 60 per cent of Australians believe Folau deserved to be sacked from his contract with Rugby Australia.</p> <p>However, 40 per cent voted Folau's controversial social post that claimed “hell awaits” gay people, among others, was not breaching his contract.  </p> <p><em>NRL Roast’s </em>post, which now sits with over 3,000 comments, has continued to stir debate with some users claiming the page was only adding “fuel to the fire".</p> <p>“If he can say whatever he believes then he should have the guts to face the consequences of his actions and use his own funds to fight his own battles,” one user wrote.</p> <p>Another added: “I don't see why people find this surprising. There are A LOT of people in the world with the same views as Falou.”</p> <p>“So you're complaining about people who are donating their OWN already taxed hard working money to Folau because they choose not to donate it to where YOU think they should donate THEIR money to?” an additional comment read.</p> <p>However, other people said it was “sad” farmers did not have “priority<span>“.</span></p> <p><span>"If only those who so support a sportsperson's contract breach which has been turned into a fight for Christianity could support those who grow our food and keep food on our tables...” one comment said.</span></p> <p>Another stated: “An absolute disgrace that people give money so easily to someone who broke his contract, not once but twice, but can’t find the money for the farmers who help put food on our tables every day, nothing like getting your priorities right.”</p> <p>Folau’s $4 million contract was terminated by Rugby Australia last month after a post on his Instagram page claimed homosexuals, among others, would burn in hell.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Legal

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How to talk about hearing loss with your loved ones

<p>When one suffers from hearing problems, it not only affects their day to day life, but also those around them. Simple things such as engaging in a conversation with friends and family can cause increasing amounts of frustration and embarrassment. In some cases, hearing loss can also prove to be dangerous as warning signals and other signs of danger may not garner a response right away. Hearing tests should be conducted as frequently as eye tests, but the first step is to recognise the problem.</p> <p>Bringing up the subject of hearing loss with someone you care about isn’t easy, and despite you being able to see the signs as clear as day, those going through it may not realise anything unusual due to the process being gradual.</p> <p>Therefore, it’s important to approach the matter in small steps. Showing compassion and understanding can take you a long way.</p> <p>Here are some tips on how to approach a loved one about hearing loss.</p> <p><strong>1. Baby steps</strong></p> <p>The first time you bring up the conversation about hearing loss, don’t be surprised if they don’t immediately take your concerns on board. Whether they’re in denial or think their issue doesn’t require immediate attention, those suffering from a hearing impairment may take time to accept their ailment.</p> <p>Which is why you need to start small. When approaching them for the first time, discuss symptoms and solutions so they become more comfortable with discussing their problems with you. Next, ask them what activities give them the most amount of frustration: Talking on the phone, watching television and how they respond to background noise are all areas of concern that should be discussed.</p> <p>Once they understand how hearing loss is impacting their everyday life, they’ll be more motivated to find a solution and do something about it.</p> <p><strong>2. Don’t sound condescending</strong></p> <p>Use the word “I”. Even though you may be a discussing a concern that relates to them, constantly referring to the issue as “your” problem may come across as chastising and will ultimately lead you nowhere. Instead, talk about how the issue is affecting you and the people they love, but in a way that doesn’t push them into becoming defensive.</p> <p><strong>3. Always remain optimistic</strong></p> <p>For the longest time hearing aids have come with negative connotations, so it’s understandable if it takes time for someone to warm up to the idea. So as the person starting the conversation, it’s important to remain positive and optimistic. The best way to do this is by giving examples of co-workers, friends or anyone you know who have had a good experience with hearing aids.</p> <p>It would be even better if that person could explain to your loved one how a hearing aid has made a positive impact in their life. Also discuss things that they will gain, such as a better outlook on life and a healthier wellbeing. Being able to hear properly has been proven to decrease dementia and brain atrophy and relieve symptoms of depression and loneliness.</p> <p><strong>4. Listen to their concerns and fears</strong></p> <p>A healthy discussion means two people having a conversation where they both have equal say. Which is why you need to take the time to listen to their concerns, as chances are, they’ll open up to you once they feel comfortable. Their apprehensions may have to do with hearing aids making them appear old, which in this day and age, is not the case due to how discreet the small piece of technology can be.</p> <p>Also avoid cutting them off when they’re talking, as they may feel invalidated and unheard. An example of a good conversation is below:</p> <p>Them: “Hearing aids are for the elderly and I’m not that old just yet.”</p> <p>You: “While I understand how you feel, as no one wants to experience being older than they are, hearing aids are quite inconspicuous. Which means no one would know about your hearing loss.”</p> <p><strong>5. Encourage them to be proactive</strong></p> <p>Now that you’ve tackled the first few steps, it’s time to discuss the ways in which they can live life to the fullest with the help of their hearing aid. Having an open conversation about hearing nutrition, new technologies and community-orientated engagement is a great way to help them realise that a hearing aid is simply a support system and will not stop them from experiencing new things.</p> <p>The more the topic of hearing aids is spoken about, the more comfortable they will be when seeing a professional for help.</p> <div class="embed-responsive embed-responsive-16by9"><iframe class="embed-responsive-item" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3DDRyAnUET0"></iframe></div> <p>It’s time to fight the stigma surrounding hearing loss. With many modern devices now being discreet, there is no need to feel self-conscious. The importance of getting your hearing checked as you age is one that cannot be stressed enough, as it’s always better to ask for help sooner rather than later.</p> <p>On average it takes six to 10 years for those suffering from the condition to reach out for professional help. But while it may take a while for the people you care about to seek treatment, don’t give up, as every small step is headed towards the right direction. And if the person in question is you, then always remember that you are not alone, and support is right around every corner.</p> <p>Lastly, always remember that discovering you potentially have a hearing impairment is not easy on anyone, so if the person you’re trying to reach out to is putting up barriers, then give it a rest and try again another time.</p> <p>For further information and guidance on getting the conversation started, visit <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.bloomhearing.co.nz/en-nz/hearing-loss/friends-and-family?utm_source=ARTICLE60s&amp;utm_medium=Over60Website&amp;utm_campaign=OverSixtiesArticle&amp;utm_content=Over60s_Article_SO" target="_blank"><span>bloom™ hearing specialists</span></a>.</p> <p><em>This is sponsored content brought to you in conjunction with <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.bloomhearing.co.nz/?utm_source=ARTICLE60s&amp;utm_medium=Over60Website&amp;utm_campaign=OverSixtiesArticle&amp;utm_content=Over60s_Article_Home" target="_blank">bloom™ hearing specialists</a>.</em></p>

Body

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Could cochlear implants improve your cognitive function?

<p>Cochlear implants could be associated with improved speech perception and cognitive function in adults with profound hearing loss who are 65 years or older. Here is a comprehensive break-down of the associated options.</p> <p><strong>What is a cochlear implant?</strong></p> <p>It is a small electronic hearing device that provides a sense of sound to profoundly deaf patients by electronically stimulating the hearing nerve and bypassing damaged parts of the inner ear. It has both internal and external parts. The complex technology essentially emulates the function of an ear to receive, process and transmit sound waves.</p> <p>The external part of a cochlear implant is placed just above the ear and involves a microphone and sound processor, which selects and arranges sound. While the transmitter converts the signals from the processor and converts them into electric impulses. The impulses are sent to the internal part of the implant, which is put in place surgically under general anaesthesia. This internal part involves a receiver and magnet under the skin behind the ear and a series of electrodes placed in the cochlear. The electrodes collect the impulses and send them to different regions of the auditory nerve.</p> <p>A cochlear implant for someone who is considered deaf is a useful representation of sound in the environment and helps them to understand speech. It bypasses the damaged portions of the ear and directly stimulates the auditory nerve. Although it takes some time to learn or relearn, hearing by a cochlear implant allows the user to recognise warning signals, understand environmental noises and even have conversations.</p> <p><strong>Who needs them?</strong></p> <p>Cochlear implants are useful for children or adults who are deaf or severely hard-of-hearing. Many children who are deaf at birth receive cochlear implants from 12 months of age. However, adults who lose hearing later in life also frequently use the devices. These individuals are then able to associate the provided signals with sounds they remember, negating the need to learn lip-reading or sign language.</p> <p>People over the age of 65 years are three times more likely to have hearing loss than younger adults. This is largely due to the damage we expose our ears to on a day-to-day basis. Loud or excessive noise damages the hair cells in the cochlear, which unfortunately don’t regrow. As well as gradual hearing loss, many people may also have incidents that cause them to suddenly lose their hearing, meaning they will also require the assistance of these devices.</p> <p><strong>Implantation</strong></p> <p>Use of a cochlear implant requires both a surgical procedure and significant therapy. Cochlear implantations are almost always safe, however, as with all surgical procedures there is always a small risk. Cochlear implants are quite costly, and the learning process is quite lengthy, however, the benefits are considered to be usually worthwhile.</p> <p><strong>Cochlear implant or hearing aid?</strong></p> <p>Hearing aids simply amplify sounds and can be easily fitted on the external part of the ear, requiring no surgical procedure. There are a variety of hearing aids available, which generally consist of a microphone, amplifier, miniature loudspeaker and battery. Hearing aids pick up and amplify surrounding sounds and help to make speech more intelligible. People with profound hearing loss or residual low frequency hearing will likely receive no benefit from hearing aids and will be considered for a cochlear implant.</p> <p><strong>Costs</strong></p> <p>Cochlear implants are an expensive piece of technology, possible adding up to around $40,000. Depending on your state Department of Health, funding is usually provided for a limited number of cochlear implants per year. Most private health fund cover the costs of the implant and hospital expenses and holders of Gold Veteran Affairs cards are usually fully covered.</p> <p>As well as financial costs, time costs must also be taken in to consideration. The assessment period usually takes three months, and then there is usually a few week’s wait for surgery. After surgery, the MAP (the programming for the cochlear implant) will need to be adjusted to the needs of its user.</p> <p><strong>Benefits</strong></p> <p>Several studies have shown benefits. One that adult cochlear implant patients allow a more marked improvement physically, psychologically and socially than hearing aid patients. This means that cochlear implants can bring as much benefit to those with profound hearing loss as hearing aids bring to those with less severe hearing loss. Another found that cochlear implants vastly improve the quality of life of deaf patients over 50. Cochlear implants are found to be a cost-effective solution in this age group, due to their increase in health and emotional-related quality of life. Increases in speech perception scores showed a strong correlation with magnitude of health utility gains.</p> <p>More recent research which was published online by JAMA Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery. This research indicates that cochlear implantation is positively associated with improved cognitive function and speech perception in adults 65 years and older with profound hearing loss. Hearing impairment correlates strongly with cognitive decline, and in cases where hearing aids are not sufficient, cochlear implantation is seen to be highly beneficial for older patients.</p> <p>This study also showed that cochlear implants not only improve speech perception – in both quiet and noise – however, they can also improve quality of life and show less incidence of depression. More than 80% of the 94 patients in the study with impaired cognitive function improved their brain function scores one year after implantation.</p> <p><strong>Who to see</strong></p> <p>If you have suddenly or gradually become profoundly hard-of-hearing, it is important to seek professional medical advice immediately. Help is available and seeking advice early could increase your quality of life.</p> <p>Options are to either visit an otolaryngologist, a doctor specialising in the diagnosis of ear, nose and throat diseases; an audiologist, who has specialised training in identifying and measuring the type and degree of hearing loss and recommends option; or a hearing aid specialist, who conducts and evaluate basic tests and offers counselling. Because cochlear implantation is for more serious hearing loss, you will need to see a specialist and then be referred to receive surgical treatment.</p> <p><em>Written by Greta Mayr. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/health/could-cochlear-implants-could-improve-your-cognitive-function.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></em></p>

Technology

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Top tips for travelling with hearing difficulties

<p>Planning a trip can be stressful — especially for the one in three Australians over 55 with hearing difficulties. But hearing loss is no reason to avoid travel; by planning ahead and managing the problem early, you can set yourself up for a safe, worry-free, enjoyable trip.</p> <p><strong>How could untreated hearing loss impact you on holiday?</strong></p> <ul> <li>Making reservations over the phone could turn into a frustrating task</li> <li>You could miss airline boarding and in-flight announcements</li> <li>You might not hear hotel room-service knocking on your door</li> <li>You could find it hard to follow dialogue during guided tours or live performances</li> <li>Understanding foreign accents could be even harder</li> <li>It could prove impossible to hold a conversation in cafes or restaurants.</li> </ul> <p>Coupled with some clever listening techniques, a reliable and adjustable hearing aid is one of the best ways to manage a hearing difficulty on holiday. Hearing aids take the hassle out of planning and ensure smooth sailing throughout your trip. Just ask Australian sailor Angus Lockheart.</p> <p>Angus has sailed thousands of nautical miles in and outside Australian waters. He’s been living on a yacht with his wife for more than five years. “A yacht’s living space is much smaller than a house, and a couple spend more time together,” said Angus.</p> <p>But as his hearing loss increased, so too did his wife’s frustration at having to constantly repeat herself. With his living quarters tightening in on him, Angus finally ordered a pair of Blamey Saunders hearing aids online. They were posted to a port for him to collect, perfectly programmed using his results from Blamey Saunders hears’ online hearing test.</p> <p>“The difference is amazing!” Angus said. (And Mrs. Lockheart is pretty happy too.)</p> <p>When flying to your dream destination, you can wear hearing aids through airport security screenings and on your flight without any damage to your devices or discomfort to you. But people with impaired hearing can’t sit in exit row seats for safety reasons, so double check the seat on your ticket and notify your flight attendant.</p> <p>Back on land, outback traveller David Lloyd has visited some of Australia’s most remote deserts with hearing aids but says not all aids are created equal. “The first problem that I faced was feedback when flies flew past, but I was able to stop that happening,” said David, who recently switched to a hearing aid that can be adjusted to suit any environment using a program on his smartphone.</p> <p>Travellers should look for a hearing aid that has self-adjustment capabilities, such as Blamey Saunders aids, which allows you to adjust your settings on the go — using an app on your smartphone or Windows computer.</p> <p>For additional support, Blamey Saunders hearing aid users can contact the company’s telehealth team by phone or email. The team can even adjust a person’s hearing aid settings for them remotely, making things easier for people in remote areas.</p> <p><strong>Managing your hearing difficulties while travelling:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Print itineraries, maps, reservation numbers, and tickets in advance</li> <li>You can usually rely on the terminal display for boarding information but it’s a good idea to ask a staff member to notify you when it’s time to board</li> <li>Inform your flight attendant of your hearing loss and ask that any in-flight announcements are repeated to you in person</li> <li>If background noise is an issue, you can try strategies; such as choosing to sit in the least noisy part of a restaurant, or adjusting your hearing aid to a directional setting</li> </ul> <p><strong>Looking after your hearing aids while travelling:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Always remove your hearing aids when you swim. Most are water resistant but are not designed to withstand full immersion</li> <li>Keep your hearing aids in a drying jar whenever you’re not using them, especially when holidaying in a hot climate, as sweat can damage a hearing aid’s delicate circuitry</li> <li>If you take out travel insurance, make sure it covers your hearing aids</li> <li>Make sure you have enough batteries to last your trip, and store them in a safe place, away from sun and moisture and out of reach of pets and children</li> </ul> <p><strong>Has your hearing ever affected your travel plans? Let us know in the comments.</strong></p> <p><em>Written by Mahsa Fratantoni. Republished with permission of <span><a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/top-tips-for-travellers-with-hearing-difficulties.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></span></em><strong> </strong></p>

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Meghan Markle's "duchess" lessons from Queen’s former aide

<p>She’s begun life as the new Duchess of Sussex, but luckily Meghan will have a highly-regarded aide at her side to help her navigate the ins and outs of performing her duties as a duchess.</p> <p>Samantha Cohen, 49, is set to become Prince Harry’s private secretary when the current head of the couple’s household leaves this summer.</p> <p>But Cohen, who was Queen Elizabeth’s assistant private secretary until April this year, has already been advising Meghan behind the scenes, helping her with protocol and navigating how to address people and manage her new position in the royal world. </p> <p>“She is a brilliant choice and has been helping Meghan adjust to the new surroundings,” says the royal insider tells <span><strong><a href="https://people.com/royals/meghan-markle-duchess-lessons-queen-former-staffer/">PEOPLE</a>.</strong></span></p> <p>Meghan has previously said she wants to “hit the ground running” with her royal duties and she has surprised many with how she’s taken to the number of royal engagements and outing she’s done with Harry in the months leading up to the royal wedding.</p> <p>Meghan also has new palace aide Amy Pickerill helping run her office and her official duties.</p>

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Prince Harry makes touching speech in honour of Princess Diana’s HIV work

<p>She’s been gone for 20 years now, but Princess Diana’s ground-breaking work raising awareness for HIV/AIDS and fighting homophobia continues to leave a lasting legacy in the LGBT community.</p> <p>Yesterday, the woman who ignored the stigma and royal protocol to touch those affected by HIV/AIDS to prove casual contact would not spread the disease, was honoured with a posthumous award from LGBT magazine <em>Attitude</em>, and Prince Harry, who has long been <a href="/news/news/2017/03/prince-harry-honours-princess-diana/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">dedicated to continuing her work</span></strong></a>, accepted it on her behalf.</p> <p>“In April 1987, my mother was only 25 years old,” the 33-year-old said. “She was still finding her way in public life, but already she felt a responsibility to shine her spotlight on the people and issues that were often ignored.</p> <p>“She knew that AIDS was one of the things that many wanted to ignore and seemed like a hopeless challenge. She knew that the misunderstanding of this relatively new disease was creating a dangerous situation when mixed with homophobia.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr">The Princess of Wales’s public meetings with AIDS patients helped to change global perceptions around HIV/AIDS. <a href="https://t.co/kl8XvX4y7g">pic.twitter.com/kl8XvX4y7g</a></p> — Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/918594084654153728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2017</a></blockquote> <p>“People were ostracized from their communities – and sometimes from their families – simply for being ill. Staff who treated the ill, were themselves often turned away from local barbers and restaurants, even though it was proven that HIV could not be passed on from casual contact.</p> <p>“And we faced the very real risk that thousands would die in the UK – including many young gay men of her generation – without making any progress towards treatment of the disease.</p> <p>“So when, that April, she shook the hand of a 32-year-old man with HIV, in front of the cameras, she knew exactly what she was doing. She was using her position as Princess of Wales – the most famous woman in the world – to challenge everyone to educate themselves; to find their compassion; and to reach out to those who need help instead of pushing them away.”</p>

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Is your dizziness caused by ear problems?

<p>There are many causes to dizziness such as low blood pressure or dehydration, but did you know ear problems are also one of them? This occurs because the balance organ is actually located in part of the inner ear, although our sense of balance actually comes from the coordination of the balance organ, the visual system and the muscles in the body. If you’ve experienced a spinning sensation coupled with decreased hearing or ringing in the ears, your dizziness might be caused by an ear disorder. You should see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.</p> <p>The most common ear-related causes of dizziness include:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo –</strong> This is a common inner-ear disorder among older people, where crystals normally located in the inner ear become dislodged. As your head moves, the crystals move causing dizziness.</li> <li><strong>Labyrinthitis –</strong> An ear disorder that involves inflammation of the middle ear. It generally occurs after a viral infection.</li> <li><strong>Meniere's disease –</strong> This is an inner ear disorder that causes severe hearing loss, tinnitus and dizziness.</li> <li><strong>Acoustic neuroma –</strong> It is a non-cancerous tumour of the ear that causes ringing in the ears, hearing loss and balance problems.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><em><strong><a href="/health/hearing/2015/09/antibiotics-linked-to-hearing-loss/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Certain antibiotics linked to hearing loss</span></a></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><a href="/health/hearing/2015/09/things-hearing-impaired-find-annoying/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">10 commandments the hard of hearing wish you’d follow</span></a></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><a href="/health/hearing/2015/09/spotify-and-starkey-hearing-foundation-ad/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Emotional video of three deaf people hearing family for first time</span></a></strong></em></p>

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The trials and tribulations of getting mum used to her new hearing aids

<p><em><strong>Celena Ross’s plans to ramp up her celebrant businesses were compromised when she found herself part of the sandwich generation of caring for an elderly mother and grandchildren. Struggling with the unexpected hours of caring and faced with a loss of identity in her transition to semi-retirement, Celena established her website</strong> <a href="http://retireematters.com.au/" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Retiree Matter</span><span style="text-decoration: underline;">s</span></strong></a> <strong>to assist other corporate women.</strong></em></p> <p>Depressed and increasingly social isolated, mum finally received some good news – my request for her new hearing aids had been approved. This was a shock to us as it was approved three years earlier than the standard pensioner replacement time of five years.</p> <p><strong>Day 1</strong></p> <p>Unfortunately, on the day of the hearing aid appointment, I was still suffering from dizziness, brought about according to my doctor from an intense three months of caring for mum after she had had a fall. Instead, my 40-year-old son took his granny and returned her to my place all smiles.</p> <p>Wearing the small microphone shaped like a USB, clipped onto our tops, mum could hear us when she was in the kitchen and we went into the loungeroom. Again, with it clipped on my son who tends to mumble at times, she could hear him clearly. Placing the device in front of the TV, for the first time in years mum could hear the TV. She could even hear it without the USB microphone device, just with her new hearing aids.</p> <p>It was smiles, high-fives and happy times.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/health/hearing/2016/10/celena-ross-on-looking-after-her-hard-of-hearing-mother/" target="_blank">Gone will be the days of saying “Whatcha Say?”</a></strong></span>and then hanging up on the phone because she can’t hear.</p> <p><strong>Day 2</strong></p> <p>I went to Mum’s to drop off some shopping and check up on her but there was a problem, she couldn’t hear the TV. She was pushing volume buttons up and down on the remote device that ‘talks’ via Bluetooth to the USB microphone. “Stop,” I explained. It was the TV remote she needed to push as she had it on silent!  I explained with the new hearing aids and devices she could have it on at a level that I could sit and listen to the TV with her.</p> <p>I wrote out very simplified instructions regarding how the remote device she wore around her neck, ‘talked’ to the USB microphone.</p> <p><em>No light = OFF</em></p> <p><em>Green light = ON</em></p> <p><em>Blue Light – Bluetooth connected – the devices could ‘talk’ to each other</em></p> <p><em>Red Light – Turning Off (then would have no light).</em></p> <p>After a couple of practise runs she understood. Mum was planning on taking it to cards and was going to clip the USB to the side of her little water bottle cover.</p> <p><strong>Day 3</strong></p> <p>I rung mum to let her know what time my husband and I will pick her up to take her out for lunch as we normally do each Sunday.</p> <p>“How did you go yesterday at cards with your hearing aids and the USB microphone?” I asked.</p> <p>“I lost it,” she replied. “I lost the microphone. I think it might have been caught up at the end, in the tablecloths, or card packs when it was all been packed up.”</p> <p>I rang the card organiser and told her but they didn’t see it anywhere. My husband and I went to the retirement village to look for her hearing aid. My husband retraces the road, path, and into the centre where she played cards at the retirement village.  He looks in drains, curbs, driveway ramps but there was no sign of it. I look in her two handbags, purse, zip compartments, but again there was no sign of it. I even look all over her scooter.</p> <p>“Oh,” she said. “When I came back the scooter was extra noisy. I think something must have been misplaced when I went over the road bumps.” She added, “There is something wrong with the phone ringing volume. I could only hear it, because I was standing next to it.”</p> <p>My husband walks into her room and within seconds finds the USB microphone in front of the TV. </p> <p>“I thought that you said you left it in the centre yesterday afternoon?” I asked.</p> <p>“Oh,” says mum. “You found it – where was it?”</p> <p>“In front of the TV,” I reply.</p> <p>“Oh, well I can’t remember putting it there. I must have put it there when I came back and forgot.”</p> <p>“Anyway,” she added. “It doesn’t work. It’s useless, I can’t hear the TV.”</p> <p>I look at the device. “That is because it is turned off,” I say calmly. “You have to turn this on and the remote device, where are the sheet of instructions? I wrote out about the colours!”</p> <p>I set her hearing aid up again and we test it. Everything works fine so off we go to lunch. My son clips the USB onto his shirt and yes, granny can hear him.</p> <p>Then. “Oh, the background noise is so noisy, ” said mum.</p> <p>“Stand up and look behind you – there is nothing there!” I respond.</p> <p>Mum looks, “Well there is loud background noise.” </p> <p>“That is just the general noise of the RSL lunch area. Your brain has to readjust and get used to been able to hear again.”</p> <p>Mum goes to the loo, when she comes back she says, “Oh the toilet is so loud and noisy.”</p> <p>Great her new hearing aids are working – they might need the volume adjusted. Mind you mum has pushed volumes up and down so much since the audiologist had set them.</p> <p>Lunch over – mum heads into the pokies to play her $5 at 1 or 5 cents a push. She is very happy. She can hear and she wins $5!</p> <p><strong>Day 5</strong></p> <p>After two days of some busyness caring for hubby who had an eye operation, I finally get time to ring mum. Without enquiring how my hubby is – who does so much for her also – mum says, “I want you to take the hearing aids and everything back. They are too noisy. The microphone doesn’t work. The volume of everything is too loud – to much background noise.”</p> <p>I try and explain that the audiologist said it will take some time, to readjust to hearing and to preserve.</p> <p>Mum replies dogmatically and emphasising her words, “I SAID TAKE THEM BACK. I DON’T WANT THEM. THEY ARE TOO NOISY AND DON’T WORK.”</p> <p>Mum explained that she spoke to another woman who had something similar – and how she stopped using them and reverted to her old hearing aids.</p> <p>Mum says she has packed everything back into the box and that I am to come and pick them up and take them back. Mum has the Bluetooth remote and USB microphone on trial for just over a fortnight before paying $550 for those – the hearing aids are free replacements. Remember, because she was crying from depression with her social isolation from not been able to hear and people ignoring her.</p> <p>I try to explain it is like rehab after a hip operation. You have to keep working at the exercise for improvement. Same with the hearing aids, you just have to keep wearing them, persevere to get used to them and retrain the brain.</p> <p>Mum replies, that there are at least five deaf people at the RSL cards and none of them have a remote device or microphone. Well I reply aren’t you lucky you do have these to help you with your hearing.</p> <p>“I don’t want them. I am using my old hearing aids. I want you to TAKE IT ALL BACK,” she says.</p> <p>I respond, “I can’t hear you. Whatcha say?” I hang up.</p> <p>It is time for a Bailey’s on the rocks!  Time is 9.30am.</p> <p><em>Follow Celena Ross on <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Retireematters/" target="_blank">Facebook here.</a></span></strong></em></p>

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Prince Harry honours Princess Diana in the most beautiful way

<p>The late Princess Diana was known for her ground-breaking work with AIDS charities, and it appears Prince Harry has inherited her generous spirit. Yesterday, the 32-year-old royal paid a visit to the Leicestershire Aids Support Service (LASS), a facility visited by his mother 26 years earlier.</p> <p><img width="499" height="705" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/34512/image__499x705.jpg" alt="Image_ (128)" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></p> <p>For one volunteer, who was present during both royal visits, Harry’s kindness and charitable attitude reminded them of his mother. “It shows he's got a good heart, like his mum.”</p> <p>During his visit, which marked the organisation’s 30th anniversary, the Prince revisited the “panel of purses” memorial wall launched by Diana and set up to honour those lost to HIV/AIDS. Each purse on the wall contains a special object celebrating each person’s life.</p> <p>Harry also took part in a funny little game of “sperm and ladders,” a snakes and ladders-type game designed to educate players about sexual health. But the Prince admitted his skills were a little rusty – “I haven’t played snakes and ladders for a long time.”</p> <p>The young royal also took a moment to speak about the importance of the charity’s work, explaining more needed to be done in the way of educating young people about the disease. “It cannot be acceptable that the first time young people know what HIV is is when they catch it,” he said. “Even if you are nowhere near an at-risk group you should get tested, to show everyone it’s OK.”</p> <p>Later in the day, Harry also paid a visit to student volunteers from the “Yes You Can” mentoring program, where he showed off his charming sense of humour. When asked by 12-year-old Tiya Thornton if he was “the real Prince Harry” the Prince cheekily replied, “yes, the other one is Ed Sheeran.”</p> <p>See some of the photos from his busy day in the gallery above and tell us in the comments, what do you think about Prince Harry’s wonderful work?</p> <p><em>Images: Kensington Palace/Twitter.</em></p>

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Teenager comes to the aid of collapsed elderly woman

<p>A US teenager has been praised after coming to the aid of an elderly woman who collapsed on her way into a supermarket. 17-year-old Senquavious Dy’Quon Driver was out shopping with his aunt in Georgia when the pair saw the 81-year-old customer fall after leaving her car.</p> <p>“We were about to pull off and leave when she [the other customer] was trying to get out of her car, but she was struggling to get on the sidewalk,” Driver’s aunt Connie Belle Jenkins Sweet told <a href="http://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/209319054-story" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">FOX 5</span></strong></a>. “She barely could walk… She was only going in for a soda, but she barely could even get in the store.”</p> <p>The elderly shopper explained to Driver that she had experienced a few falls before, injuring her back and face.</p> <p>Sweet took the opportunity to take a few snaps of her nephew’s act of kindness, sharing the photos to her local Facebook group with the caption, “I take proud in knowing and being a part of his life. It brought tears to my eyes because he wanted to help her and not even knowing her situation she was so glad he took the time to help her.”</p> <p>What a thoughtful gesture. Tell us in the comments below, what’s the most beautiful act of kindness you’ve ever witnessed?</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/10/babys-bouffant-hair-goes-viral/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Baby wins hearts with adorably bouffant hair</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/10/102-year-old-arrested-for-bucked-list/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>102-year-old’s bucket list wish of being arrested comes true</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/10/three-pensioners-take-down-burglar-in-dramatic-video/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Three pensioners take down burglar in dramatic video</strong></em></span></a></p>

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Prince William rushes to the aid of fallen 72-year-old

<p>Prince William has come to the rescue of a 72-year-old man, after he collapsed during the royal’s visit to an Essex school. Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Essex, John Douglas-Hughes, fell over when welcoming the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to Stewards Academy School, and William immediately rushed to the man’s side.</p> <p>The ultra-polite 72-year-old actually apologised to the young royal, who immediately replied, “no, it’s all right,” and helped him to his feet.</p> <p>William and Kate were visiting the school as part of their mental health campaign, Heads Together, meeting with students and teachers to help drive the conversation around youth mental health issues such as bullying and stress.</p> <p>“Having met Catherine on a couple of occasions, she's so knowledgeable about mental health and they are really passionate,” Director of Clinical Services at children’s charity Place2Be, Dr Fiona Pienaar said. “I just think it's marvellous what they are doing.”</p> <p>Prior to their visit, William wrote a blog post revealing how his young children inspired him to get involved in the campaign. “Catherine and I have young children who will be going through this themselves in a short period of time,” he wrote. “Like all parents we will want to make sure that our children are not just able to achieve their academic potential at school but are also happy and emotionally supported.</p> <p>“The sooner children learn in life that asking for help is okay, the better. It better equips us for adulthood - just as much as good academic results.”</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/09/prince-william-dances-and-bakes-at-youth-centre/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Prince William shows off dance moves and baking skills at London youth centre</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/09/princess-charlotte-first-official-visit-to-canada/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Charlotte and George to accompany Kate and William on official tour</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/news/news/2016/09/duchess-of-cambridge-reveals-secret-job-desires/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Duchess of Cambridge reveals the job she’d love if she wasn’t a royal</strong></em></span></a></p>

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Common misconceptions about hearing aids

<p>Hearing aid technology has come a long way since its first incarnations but many people still believe they are expensive, ugly and uncomfortable. That’s just not true. Here are four more misconceptions about hearing aids and why they’re wrong.</p> <p><strong>“Hearing aids don’t work well”</strong></p> <p>Modern hearing aids have come along way. They are now quite sophisticated electronic instruments that are better able to help those with hearing loss than you’d think. Advancements in technology have meant hearing aids now facilitate clearer speech, less background noise, and a more natural hearing experience. However, hearing aids don’t restore normal hearing and it takes time to get used to them before the full benefits become apparent. Once you get used to them, hearing aids almost always result in better hearing.</p> <p><strong>“Hearing aids are so big, bulky and ugly”</strong></p> <p>Today’s hearing aids are small, well-designed and discrete. In fact, most hearing aids are hardly noticeable anymore.</p> <p><strong>“Hearing aids are too uncomfortable to wear”</strong></p> <p>While it’s true that it is more comfortable to not have anything in your ears, modern hearing aids are no longer big or bulky and are better designed with comfort in mind. Hearing and sound will also be different with hearing aids, which may be uncomfortable and frustrating at first. It is simply a matter of getting used to both the sounds and the sensation of having something in your ears but as diligent hearing aid users will tell you, you become used to it.</p> <p><strong>“It doesn’t matter where you get hearing aids from as long as they’re cheap”</strong></p> <p>While buying hearing aids off the web is cheaper, not all hearing aids are created equally. When it comes to your hearing, it’s advisable to get professional care. Audiologists are the best people to help you get the most out of your hearing aids with qualified hearing evaluations, professional recommendations as to the most appropriate type of hearing aid, expert instruction regarding proper hearing aid usage and follow up care.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/health/hearing/2015/02/finding-the-right-hearing-aids/" target="_blank">Finding the right hearing aids for your needs</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/health/hearing/2015/02/apps-for-hearing-impaired/" target="_blank">Great apps for the hearing impaired</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/health/hearing/2015/03/hearing-loss-bad-for-relationships/" target="_blank">Hearing loss could be harming your relationship</a></strong></em></span></p>

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