Better Hearing & Speech Month Screenings

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month (BHSM), a full month aimed at raising public awareness and knowledge of communication and hearing disorders, as well as available treatment options. BHSM was founded in 1927 by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), and encourages individuals to analyze their hearing and speech abilities, as hearing and communication disorders span all ages and can take various forms. This year’s theme is “Communication Takes Care.”

According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), many communication and hearing disorders are treatable, but often overlooked. “Most people think of hearing loss as something that only affects the elderly,” explained Dr. Rebecca Blaha, an audiologist at the Pennsylvania Ear Institute of Salus University (PEI). “Surprisingly, the majority of individuals with hearing loss are younger than age 65, and untreated hearing loss can contribute to further health problems,” she noted. “It’s important to have your hearing screened in order to protect one of your best communication assets.”

Hearing Screenings at Salus PEI Early detection and intervention of hearing loss or communication disorders can lead to shorter, more cost effective treatment periods and overall better quality of life. According to Robert Serianni, MS, CCC-SLP, interim chair and director of the Department of Speech-Language Pathology, regular screenings are essential in the fight against communication and hearing disorders. “Screenings are a great way for the public to get a quick glimpse at their communication skills, to make sure they are on part with age-related guidelines,” said Mr. Serianni. “Differences or difficulties may signal the potential for more significant problems may be occurring, and a full assessment is warranted.”

Both the University’s Pennsylvania Ear Institute and Speech-Language Institute are dedicated to educating and treating those impacted by hearing and communication disorders. In honor of Better Hearing and Speech Month, PEI and SLI are working together to provide complimentary hearing and speech-language screenings to the community. Screenings are available for both walk-ins and appointments. If you or someone you know has a hearing or balance problem, please contact the Pennsylvania Ear Institute at 215.780.3180. To make an appointment at the Speech-Language Institute for communication or swallowing disorders, please call 215.780.3150.