With age, we often become more cautious about our well-being, scheduling routine medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing routine assessments to stay on top of our physical wellness. But one crucial area often gets neglected: our hearing!
Many individuals are not aware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which often develops gradually, particularly as people reach the age of 50 and older. The positive side is that regular hearing assessments are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive impact on both your physical well-being and day-to-day 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 what they said. At the outset, the signs might be tenuous, manifesting as difficulties following discussions, particularly in loud settings, or a growing feeling that others are talking illegibly.
Roughly one-third of individuals aged 65 and older experience hearing loss, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their everyday activities as a result of this problem. The main issue derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to advance gradually, leading individuals to often underestimate the extent of their impairment until it starts to affect their social connections, job performance, or emotional health.
The importance of routine hearing checks for adults over 50
Just like an annual physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they make a difference:
Early diagnosis means early action
The earlier hearing loss is recognized, the easier it is to deal with. Regular assessments allow audiologists to record changes over time and suggest solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Studies have 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 lead to mental fatigue and decreased cognitive function over time.
Improved communication leads to more solid connections
Frustration, social isolation, and depression may result from hearing loss. Struggling to hear or misunderstanding others on a regular basis can have a negative effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Managing hearing problems helps preserve 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. Older people are at a higher risk of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological evaluation is a quick and comfortable process that usually takes less than an hour. You will consult with a hearing specialist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or concerns
- Utilize headphones to assess your auditory perception of a variety of frequencies
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing impairment is identified, you’ll explore potential solutions, including using hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to enhance your overall auditory health.
How often should you get a hearing test?
Hearing specialists advise getting an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having regular exams every year or every other year, particularly if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- 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 engage with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Regular assessments after 50 can help you stay sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can schedule.
Need assistance getting started? Reach out to us now to schedule a comprehensive hearing test. Hearing specialists are available to assist you in preserving your hearing health and providing support, whether you have observed any changes or simply want reassurance.