As we age, we have a tendency to keep a close eye on our health, regular checkups, blood pressure checks, and eye exams. But one vital area often gets overlooked: our hearing!
Many individuals are not aware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which frequently advances slowly, specifically as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Routine hearing exams are fast, painless, and can make a significant difference in your overall health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common issue that is often unnoticed
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily detectable as continuously adjusting the volume or regularly requesting people to speak louder. It can be subtle at first, like missing parts of conversations, particularly in noisy places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more often.
Approximately one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing loss, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their daily activities due to this issue. The main problem stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to advance gradually, leading individuals to often undervalue the degree of their impairment until it starts to affect their social connections, work performance, or emotional well being.
The significance of regular hearing tests for people over 50
Exactly like an annual physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to protect your health. Here’s why they matter:
Early detection means early response
It is easier to manage hearing loss when detected early. Regular screenings enable audiologists to monitor changes and recommend interventions before the issue progresses further.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has shown that untreated hearing loss is associated with a higher danger of mental decline and dementia.
That’s because the brain struggles to “fill in the gaps” when hearing is impaired, which can result in mental exhaustion and reduced mental function over time.
Better communication, better 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. Managing hearing issues helps maintain meaningful relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your equilibrium and spatial awareness. Hearing loss has been connected to an increased danger of falls, specifically in older people.
What to expect during a hearing test
A hearing exam is simple, painless, and usually takes under an hour. You’ll consult with an audiologist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Make use of headphones to evaluate your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is identified, you’ll go over options, which may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How often should you get a hearing exam?
Hearing specialists advise getting an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having regular checkups every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family background linked to hearing issues
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- You are a current hearing aid user
Don’t hesitate to have your hearing checked
How you engage with the world is influenced by your ability to hear. Regular assessments after 50 can help you remain sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the easiest health checks you can get.
Need help getting started? Contact us today to book a hearing assessment. Hearing specialists are available to assist you in maintaining your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply seek reassurance.
