Most people wanting to set themselves goals for the new year tend to improve their diet or exercise more, or they might try to spend less money or get a new job.
However, something that is worth pursuing as a goal for 2026 is protecting your hearing.
Whether you join the 19 per cent of Brits who made New Year’s Resolutions for 2026, or you just want to set some good intentions for the following 12 months, looking after your ears will serve you well not just in the following year but for the rest of your life.
Here are five resolutions you could make for better hearing health:
1) Protect your ears
The most important change you can make is to protect your ears at all times. This means making sure the volume is below the threshold for hearing damage, which is 85 dB.
Prolonged exposure to noises over this can damage hearing over time, while a single blast of 120 dB could do damage after only once.
You should also take breaks from noisy environments to give your ears a rest; wear earplugs, especially if you work in loud areas or you are at a concert; and ask your employer to reduce workplace volume.
2) Schedule regular hearing tests
To keep on top of your hearing health, make sure to book in regular hearing tests. If hearing loss is diagnosed earlier, it is much easier to treat than if it is left to worsen over time.
Adults over the age of 50 should get a hearing test at least every two years; however, those who are at risk, such as people who work in noisy settings, should have their ears checked more regularly.
3) Start treatment asap
If it is found that you are suffering from hearing loss, it is important to start treatment as soon as possible.
This can help prevent worsening hearing, as well as a cognitive decline and social isolation, as poor ear health can make people withdraw from their peer groups and family.
Taking action at the first opportunity, such as by getting a private hearing aid, can maintain quality of life.
4) Maintain your hearing aid
If you already have a hearing aid, it is essential to keep it well looked after. This includes cleaning them regularly, replacing batteries when they are low, and getting your audiologist to regularly check them to ensure they are working properly.
This can make a huge difference to the effectiveness of the hearing aid, and can make it much easier for people to follow conversations and remain social.
5) Enjoy a healthier lifestyle
Nearly a quarter of people who made New Year’s Resolutions this year wanted to exercise more, while 17 per cent intended to lose weight, and 11 per cent claimed 2026 was the year they were going to eat more healthily.
While many of these people are likely to give up on their resolutions by the end of January, it is certainly worth trying to keep fit and healthy if you want to improve your hearing.
This is because it can reduce the chance of developing hearing loss.
For instance, nutrients found in foods, such as magnesium, omega-3s, zinc, B vitamins, and antioxidants help to protect the inner ear from damage, as well as reduce inflammation.
On the flip side, artificial cheeses, sugar, sweeteners, high fat meats, chemicals, sodium, and refined carbohydrates should be foods to consume less, as processed foods are linked with hearing loss.
At the same time, taking part in exercise boosts blood flow to the inner ear, which helps to maintain hearing.