With age, we often become more vigilant about our health, going to regular medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and having routine screenings to stay on top of our physical wellness. Our hearing is a crucial element that is frequently overlooked.
Many people are not aware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which often develops slowly, especially as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing tests are quick, painless, and can make a significant difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a prevalent (and often quiet) issue
Hearing loss doesn’t always appear like cranking the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat themselves. At the outset, the indications might be faint, manifesting as difficulties following discussions, particularly in loud environments, or a progressing feeling that people are speaking illegibly.
Approximately one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing impairment, while nearly 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their everyday tasks due to this problem. The issue? Because hearing loss progresses slowly, most people don’t realize how much they’re missing until it begins impacting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
Why hearing exams after age 50 make a difference
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, undergoing a hearing assessment can help safeguard your well-being. Let’s discover the importance of these assessments:
Detecting issues promptly leads to taking immediate steps
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when recognized early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to monitor changes and suggest treatments before the issue progresses further.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Research has shown that untreated hearing loss is associated with an increased danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain expends more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental exhaustion and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Improved communication leads to more solid relationships
Frustration, social isolation, and depression may result from hearing loss. Struggling to hear or misunderstanding others on a routine basis can have an unfavorable impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Addressing hearing issues helps maintain meaningful relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to helping in your ability to hear, your ears also support maintaining your balance and spatial orientation. Older people are at a higher risk of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What to expect during a hearing exam
A hearing test is simple, painless, and usually takes under an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Utilize headphones to evaluate your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Sometimes conduct speech recognition tests or other assessments
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll go over options, which may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle changes to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you have a hearing assessment?
Experts suggest a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by yearly or biannual checkups, especially if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background linked to hearing issues
- Are exposed to loud noises on the job or in past workplaces
- You are a current hearing aid user
Don’t hesitate to have your hearing examined
How you interact with the world is influenced by your ability to hear. Regular screenings after 50 can help you remain sharp, socially active, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can schedule.
Need help getting started? Reach out to us now to schedule a comprehensive hearing assessment. Hearing specialists are available to assist you in preserving your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply want reassurance.