With age, we often become more cautious about our health, scheduling routine medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and having regular assessments to stay on top of our physical wellness. But one crucial area often gets neglected: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many individuals recognize, and it can creep in gradually, particularly after age 50. The good news? Routine hearing exams are fast, painless, and can make a huge difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common issue that is frequently unnoticed
Hearing loss doesn’t always appear like turning the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat themselves. It can be subtle initially, like missing out on parts of conversations, particularly in noisy places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more frequently.
Approximately one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing loss, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their everyday activities as a result of this issue. The issue? Because hearing loss develops gradually, most individuals don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it begins impacting their relationships, work, or mental health.
Why hearing exams after age 50 make a difference
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, having a hearing assessment can help safeguard your health. Let’s discover the significance of these assessments:
Identifying issues quickly leads to taking immediate measures
The sooner hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to deal with. Regular screenings allow audiologists to record changes over time and recommend solutions before the problem becomes more advanced.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Research has revealed that neglected hearing loss is linked to a higher risk of mental 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.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Frustration, social isolation, and depression could 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. Improving hearing can help maintain 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 balance and spatial awareness. Hearing loss has been connected to an increased danger of falls, particularly in older people.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing test is simple, painless, and usually takes under an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist 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 detected, you’ll explore potential solutions, such as wearing hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to enhance your total auditory well-being.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
Experts recommend a baseline hearing exam at age 50, followed by annual or biannual appointments, particularly if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family history of hearing loss
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- Already use hearing aids
Don’t wait to have your hearing checked
Your hearing affects how you communicate with the world. Regular assessments after 50 can help you remain sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can get.
Need assistance getting started? Contact us today to book a hearing evaluation. Hearing specialists are available to help you in preserving your hearing health and providing support, whether you have observed any changes or simply want reassurance.