With age, we often become more cautious about our well-being, going to routine medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and having routine assessments to stay on top of our physical health. Our hearing is a crucial aspect that is frequently neglected.
Many people are not aware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which frequently advances gradually, especially as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing exams are quick, painless, and can make a significant difference in your general well being and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a prevalent (and often silent) issue
Not all cases of hearing loss are as easily noticeable as continuously adjusting the volume or frequently requesting people to talk louder. It can be subtle at first, like missing out on parts of conversations, particularly in noisy places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more often.
Approximately one-third of individuals aged 65 and older cope with hearing loss, while nearly 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their daily activities due to this problem. The problem? Because hearing loss develops slowly, most individuals don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it starts affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
Why hearing tests after age 50 matter
Just like a yearly physical or vision assessment, a hearing exam is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Detecting issues promptly results in taking immediate steps
The sooner hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to manage. Regular screenings allow audiologists to track changes over time and recommend solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has revealed that neglected hearing loss is linked to a higher danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
That’s because the brain struggles to “fill in the blanks” when hearing is impaired, which can lead to mental fatigue and decreased cognitive function over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social withdrawal, and even depression. Struggling to hear or misinterpreting others on a regular basis can have an unfavorable effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Enhancing hearing can help preserve important relationships.
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 people are at a higher danger of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What to expect during a hearing test
A hearing exam is basic, painless, and typically takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Sometimes conduct speech recognition tests or other assessments
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll explore potential strategies, including using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to enhance your total auditory health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Experts suggest a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by yearly or biannual checkups, particularly if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background linked to hearing problems
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- You are a current hearing aid user
Take control of your hearing health today
How you interact with the world is influenced by your ability to hear. Getting routine screenings once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental focus, social connections, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a straightforward way to monitor your health.
Not sure where to start? 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 observed any changes or simply want reassurance.
