Promoting Healthy Hearing & Awareness of Hearing Loss

Drs. Mariah Jarosh and Jeffrey Shymanski will share information regarding early signs of hearing loss, healthy hearing habits, what to expect when visiting a hearing healthcare provider (e.g., audiologist), and current research exploring the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline.

Hearing loss is an underdiagnosed and largely invisible condition that affects our ability to communicate and connect with those around us. Hearing loss may go unnoticed as it often occurs gradually, and is commonly associated with noise-induced or age-related factors. Those with hearing loss may report that their loved ones "mumble" and have a more difficult time following conversation in noisy environments. Drs. Jarosh and Shymanski will discuss the role of hearing loss prevention, highlighting potentially damaging sources of noise in our daily listening environment, as well as demonstrate the proper way to place an earplug! As audiologists, they will provide an overview of hearing devices (including hearing aids, OTC devices, personal amplifiers) and how selection of an appropriate hearing device is essential for hearing well. Lastly, Drs. Jarosh and Shymanski will share research findings indicating that healthy hearing supports a healthy brain as we age -- untreated hearing loss is the largest preventable factor for dementia in older adults.

Dr. Jarosh received her undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Iowa and later her Doctorate in Audiology from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis in 2015. She completed her externship at Midwest Ear Institute -- Saint Luke's Hospital in Kansas City. Dr. Shymanski received his undergraduate degree and later his Doctorate in Audiology from The University of Iowa in 2023, with his externship completed through Boys Town National Research Hospital in Omaha. Drs. Jarosh and Shymanski both live in Ankeny and serve clinics in and around the area. Dr. Jarosh is originally from Ankeny!

This program is free and open to the public.