With age, we typically become more cautious about our health, scheduling routine medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing routine screenings to stay on top of our physical wellness. But one vital area commonly gets overlooked: our hearing!
Many people are not aware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which often advances slowly, especially as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing tests are fast, painless, and can make a significant difference in your general well being and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a prevalent issue that is often unnoticed
Not all cases of hearing loss are as easily detectable as continuously raising the volume or frequently requesting people to speak louder. At the outset, the signs might be faint, materializing as difficulties following conversations, particularly in noisy settings, or a growing feeling that people are speaking indistinctly.
Approximately one-third of individuals aged 65 and older cope with hearing impairment, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their everyday tasks due to this problem. The issue? Because hearing loss develops gradually, most individuals don’t realize how much they’re missing until it begins affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
Why hearing tests after age 50 matter
Similar to getting a yearly check-up or eye examination, having a hearing evaluation can help safeguard your well-being. Let’s discover the significance of these assessments:
Detecting problems promptly results in taking immediate steps
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when recognized early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to keep track of changes and suggest treatments before the problem advances further.
The health of your hearing is linked to the health of your brain
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in mental function and developing dementia.
That’s because the brain works harder to “fill in the blanks” when hearing is impaired, which can result in mental exhaustion and decreased cognitive function over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Frustration, social isolation, and depression may result from hearing impairment. When you’re continuously straining to hear or misunderstanding others, it can take a toll on your personal and professional life. Improving hearing can help preserve significant relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your balance and spatial awareness. Older people are at a higher risk of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing exam is basic, painless, and usually takes under an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or worries
- Use headphones to test how well you hear various tones and pitches
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is identified, you’ll explore potential strategies, such as using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your daily habits to improve your total auditory well-being.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
Hearing specialists suggest getting an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having routine exams every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Notice changes in your hearing
- Have a family background linked to hearing issues
- Work or have worked in loud environments
- You are a current hearing aid user
Take control of your hearing health now
Your hearing impacts how you connect with the world. Routine screenings after 50 can help you remain sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can get.
Need assistance getting started? Contact us today to book a hearing assessment. Whether you’ve observed changes or just want peace of mind, hearing specialists are here to support your hearing– and your health– every step of the way!