As we age, we tend to keep a close eye on our health, regular exams, blood pressure tests, and eye tests. But one crucial area often gets neglected: our hearing!
Many individuals are unaware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which often develops slowly, particularly as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing exams are quick, pain-free, and can make a significant difference in your overall health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a prevalent issue that is often unnoticed
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily noticeable as constantly raising the volume or regularly requesting others to talk 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.
In fact, 1 in 3 adults over age 65 has hearing loss, and about 28% over 52 have trouble with day-to-day activities as a result. The issue? Because hearing loss progresses slowly, most individuals don’t realize how much they’re missing until it begins impacting their relationships, work, or mental health.
Why hearing tests after age 50 matter
Exactly like an annual physical or vision screening, a hearing exam is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they make a difference:
Identifying issues quickly results in taking immediate steps
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when detected early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to monitor changes and suggest interventions before the issue progresses further.
Hearing health is linked to brain health
Research has revealed a link between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in mental function and developing dementia.
That’s because the brain works harder to “fill in the gaps” when hearing is impaired, which can lead to mental fatigue and decreased cognitive function over time.
Improved communication results in more solid relationships
Hearing loss can lead to frustration, social solitude, and even depression. Straining to hear or misinterpreting others on a routine basis can have an unfavorable impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Managing hearing problems helps maintain meaningful relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
In addition to aiding in your ability to hear, your ears also support maintaining your balance and spatial orientation. Older adults are at a higher danger of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What to expect during a hearing test
An audiological assessment is a fast and relaxed process that typically lasts less than an hour. You will consult with a hearing specialist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or concerns
- Use headphones to test how well you hear various tones and pitches
- Possibly conduct speech recognition tests or other evaluations
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll discuss options, which might include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you have a hearing assessment?
Hearing specialists advise getting an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having regular exams every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in noisy settings
- You are a current hearing aid user
Take control of your hearing health today
How you engage with the world is influenced by your ability to hear. Routine assessments after 50 can help you stay sharp, socially active, and independent– and they’re one of the easiest health checks you can get.
Need help getting started? Reach out to us now to schedule a comprehensive hearing test. Whether you’ve observed changes or just want peace of mind, hearing specialists are here to support your hearing– and your health– every step of the way!
