How is Your Hearing Health?

More than 30 million Americans of all ages are affected by hearing loss — which can range from mild to profound. If you suspect you have hearing loss, take this simple test.

You can hear, but you can’t understand. Among the first sounds that “disappear” are high-pitched sounds like women’s and children’s voices, and confusion among words such as “dime” and “time.”

You are continually asking people to repeat words or phrases, though they feel they are speaking loud enough.

You find yourself complaining that people are mumbling or slurring their words.

You have difficulty understanding what’s being said, unless you are facing the speaker.

You prefer the TV or radio louder than others do.

You have difficulty understanding conversation within a group of people.

If you answered “yes” to at least one of these questions, you may have hearing loss and need to have your hearing tested. Schedule your COMPLIMENTARY screening and evaluation.

Answers on pg. 30

1. Which artist netted a Grammy for his “I’d Do Anything for Love”?

2. Name the first group to release “Teach Your Children.”

3. Name the duo that released “Teardrops.”

4. Which artist released “Maybe I Know”?

5. Name the late 1980s song that contains these lyrics: “When no one else can understand me, When everything I do is wrong, You give me hope and consolation, You give me strength to carry on.”

PAW’S CORNER

CHUBBY PUPPY?

A pet owner asks about his overweight pet

Q. My labrador-mix, Seeker, has always been a big guy. Lately he’s turned into a very round dog. If I don’t feed him throughout the day, he sits beside his bowl and howls—making it impossible for me to work at my desk. What can I do to calm him down and help him lose weight?

A: It’s hard to lose extra pounds, and Seeker is complaining about it! One way to mitigate howling is to implement a divert-and-reward system to take his mind off his empty bowl. In essence, keep Seeker away from the kitchen and as busy as your schedule allows. Right after breakfast, close off the kitchen. Use a baby gate or shut the door, and hide the food bowl out of sight. Take Seeker for a short walk to burn off energy and calories. While working, keep Seeker separated from the kitchen and give him plenty of chew toys. Spend time with him on each break from work and be sure to take him on a long walk each day before dinner.