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February 2026 | Gazette Life | 23Listen HearFebruary is typically one of Lanzarote%u2019s noisiest months, as carnival parades bring a thunderous avalanche of music and rhythm. Yet, many on the island who suffer from hearing loss will miss the racket entirely.While some may consider this a blessing, particularly when drums and reggaeton echo in the early hours, hearing loss is a serious matter. It can be profoundly disabling and is worth addressing promptly.It is important to distinguish between being deaf and being hard of hearing. Deaf people usually have profound hearing loss and often communicate via sign language. The hard of hearing, however, are those with partial hearing loss who continue to communicate verbally. This affects a significant part of the population, including over 25% of people over 60, with 97% of those with hearing loss still relying on spoken language.Modern life is far more accommodating than decades past. Visible hearing aids and ear trumpets are gone, phones are adaptable, and subtitles are widely available. However, living abroad can amplify difficulties. The language barrier is even higher for the hard of hearing, as we are naturally more attuned to the rhythms of our native tongue. Hearing loss can make understanding a second language, like Spanish, significantly harder.DEALING WITH HEARING LOSSThe first step is recognising the issue. Signs include struggling to follow conversations or constantly turning up the volume on devices. English speakers can take an initial test via the Royal National Institute for the Deaf (RNID) website. If results suggest a problem, book an appointment with your doctor.A medical examination will establish the state of your hearing and identify potential causes, such as ear wax or a perforated eardrum, where recovery may be possible. Age related hearing loss, however, is permanent.For this, a hearing aid is the primary solution. They can be expensive, averaging around %u20ac1,500 for both ears, so check if your health service will cover any costs. While the price deters many, leaving hearing loss unaddressed can lead to isolation, depression, and a diminished quality of life. The noise of life, from carnival rumbles to a child%u2019s laughter, is worth preserving.LOOKING AFTER YOUR HEARING%u2022 Keeping music, TV, and radio at normal conversation volume.%u2022 Not blasting headphones; people nearby should not hear your audio.%u2022 Using noise cancelling headphones for better protection.%u2022 Wearing earmuffs during noisy activities like drilling.%u2022 At concerts or clubs, staying away from speakers and considering earplugs, a practice musicians should also adopt.GAZETTE | HEALTH