With age, we often become more vigilant about our well-being, scheduling regular medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and having routine assessments to stay on top of our physical wellness. But one crucial area commonly gets overlooked: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many people recognize, and it can sneak in gradually, particularly after age 50. The good news? Regular hearing exams are quick, pain-free, and can make a huge difference in your overall health and quality of life!
Hearing impairment: a common problem that is often unnoticed
Hearing loss doesn’t always look like turning the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat themselves. At the outset, the signs might be faint, manifesting as difficulties following discussions, especially in loud settings, or a growing sense that people are speaking illegibly.
Roughly 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 problem. The issue? Because hearing loss develops slowly, most individuals don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it starts impacting their relationships, work, or mental health.
The significance of routine hearing tests for people over 50
Just like an annual physical or vision assessment, a hearing exam is a proactive way to protect your health. Here’s why they matter:
Detecting issues promptly results in taking immediate measures
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when recognized early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to monitor changes and suggest interventions before the problem progresses further.
The health of your hearing is linked to the health of your brain
Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss is associated with a higher danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
That’s because the brain works harder to “fill in the gaps” when hearing is impaired, which can result in mental fatigue and reduced cognitive function over time.
Improved communication results in more solid relationships
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social withdrawal, and even depression. When you’re constantly struggling to hear or misunderstanding others, it can have a negative affect 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 equilibrium and spatial awareness. Older people are at a higher danger of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological evaluation is a fast and relaxed process that usually takes under 60 minutes. You will consult with a hearing specialist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or worries
- Make use of headphones to evaluate your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll discuss options, which may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
Experts suggest a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by yearly or biannual checkups, particularly if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Are exposed to loud noises on the job or in past workplaces
- Already wear hearing aids
Don’t wait to have your hearing checked
How you interact with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Having routine assessments once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental focus, social relationships, and autonomy. Furthermore, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.
Need assistance getting started? Contact us today to book a hearing assessment. Hearing specialists are available to help you in maintaining your hearing health and providing support, whether you have observed any changes or simply seek reassurance.