I was recently asked if I was a “good listener.” Hmmm, I would like to think so, but as with most people, there may be room for improvement.I attempted to go about my week looking for opportunities to really listen to what I was hearing, actively listening to conversations or speakers, and reciting what I had just heard in my mind. This awareness transcended into listening to sounds around me and whether or not I could identify the type of sound. I am sure there are still areas where I could improve, but it also helped me realize that our gift of “hearing” should not be taken for granted. We have so many opportunities to engage with others if we truly can listen. I also identified that my hearing might be damaged or not as good as in previous years as I age. Who doesn’t like to play their music a bit on the louder side? I am grateful that we have onsite audiology services available at JMHS to evaluate hearing and identify any losses early on. I cannot imagine not being able to listen or miss out on the birds signing in the morning. There are so many interesting people or things to hear. Don’t miss out on them by delaying that audiology exam.
Kris Jacobson, LNHA, LALD, MBA
JMHS Interim CEO