With age, we typically become more cautious about our health, scheduling regular medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing regular assessments to stay on top of our physical wellness. But one essential area often gets neglected: our hearing!
Many individuals are not aware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which often develops gradually, particularly as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing exams are quick, pain-free, and can make a significant difference in your overall well being and quality of life!
Hearing impairment: a prevalent problem that is often undetected
Hearing loss doesn’t always appear like turning the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat what they said. It can be subtle at first, like missing out on parts of conversations, particularly in loud places, or feeling like people are mumbling more often.
In fact, 1 in 3 adults over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and around 28% over 52 have difficulty with daily tasks because of this. The problem? Because hearing loss progresses gradually, most individuals don’t realize how much they’re missing until it starts affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
The importance of routine hearing tests for people over 50
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, having a hearing assessment can help protect your health. Let’s explore the importance of these evaluations:
Detecting problems promptly results in taking immediate steps
The earlier hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to manage. Regular screenings allow audiologists to track changes over time and suggest solutions before the problem becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is linked to brain health
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in mental function and developing dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental exhaustion and a decline in cognitive abilities over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Frustration, social seclusion, and depression may result from hearing loss. Straining to hear or misinterpreting others on a regular basis can have a negative effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Managing hearing issues helps maintain meaningful connections.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to aiding in your ability to hear, your ears also contribute to maintaining your balance and spatial alignment. Older adults are at a higher danger of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing exam is simple, painless, and typically takes under an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Make use of headphones to assess your auditory perception of a variety of frequencies
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing impairment is identified, you’ll explore potential strategies, including using hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to enhance your total auditory well-being.
How often should you get a hearing test?
Hearing specialists advise having an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having routine checkups every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in noisy environments
- Already wear hearing aids
Don’t wait to get your hearing checked
Your hearing affects how you communicate with the world. Routine assessments after 50 can help you stay sharp, socially active, and independent– and they’re one of the easiest health checks you can get.
Not certain where to start? Reach out to us now to schedule a complete hearing assessment. Hearing specialists are available to help you in preserving your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply seek reassurance.