Hearing Health Through the Seasons – Summer Edition
July 18, 2025 | News
Sound of the Season
Summer is the season of vibrant sounds, each one bursting with life. The sound of a cold can opening and the happy splash of kids jumping into a pool remind us to enjoy the sun and feel the energy of the season. At our clinic, we asked our team: What’s your favourite sound of summer? Here’s what they shared:
“Hearing my flip-flops.. summer is here!”
“Hearing the sound of water splish splash as I glide on the lake with my paddle board.”
“Sounds of nature on a peaceful morning while sipping coffee, looking out at the lake.”
Take a moment today to notice the sounds that define summer for you. These little moments remind us that sound can bring our favourite memories to life.
Hot Weather, Healthy Hearing
It’s worth remembering that while you’re enjoying the beautiful sounds of summer, the hot season can also bring a few challenges for your ears. Whether it’s swimming, sweating, or just spending more time outdoors, warm weather can affect your hearing health in subtle ways. The good news? A few simple habits can help keep your ears healthy all season long!
- Dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering to help prevent swimmer’s ear, which is redness or swelling (inflammation), irritation, or infection of the outer ear canal. When water stays in the ear canal, germs can grow;
- Avoid inserting objects (like cotton swabs or fingers) into your ears, even if they feel itchy from heat or humidity;
- Turn the volume down when using earbuds or headphones outdoors, background noise can tempt us to crank it up too high;
- Use ear protection if you’re heading to loud summer events like concerts or firework events.
Hearing Health 101 – Hearing Loss and Mental Health
When hearing loss goes untreated, it can affect more than just your ears. Many people with hearing difficulties feel left out, lonely, or less connected to others, especially in group settings or noisy places. This can lead to social isolation, anxiety, and even depression. Studies show that as hearing loss gets worse, the chance of feeling depressed also goes up. For example, around 5% of people with normal hearing report depression, but that number more than doubles for those with severe hearing loss (Shukla et al., 2014). Don’t let hearing loss hold you back this summer, spotting the problem early can help you stay connected, stay social, and enjoy every moment.
A Taste of the Summer
Looking for a fresh and easy dish to enjoy in the sunshine? Try this light but flavourful Grilled Shrimp Louie!
Ingredients
Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup creme fraiche
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons minced green onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Grilled Shrimp:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ lemon, juiced
- 2 pounds uncooked medium shrimp – peeled and deveined, tails left intact
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salad:
- 1 heart of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 8 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado – peeled, pitted, and thinly sliced
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, halved
Instructions:
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients. Cover and chill for 2–3 hours.
- Prepare the shrimp: Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and smoked paprika.
- Grill the shrimp: Grill over high heat for about 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Assemble the salad: Arrange romaine, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, and egg halves in bowls. Season with salt and pepper.
- Finish & serve: Add shrimp, drizzle with dressing, and garnish with green onions.
Source: Grilled Shrimp Louie
