As we get older, we tend to keep a close watch on our health, regular checkups, blood pressure tests, and eye tests. But one essential area commonly gets overlooked: our hearing!
Many individuals are not aware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which often advances gradually, particularly as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing exams are fast, pain-free, and can make a huge difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common (and often silent) issue
Hearing loss doesn’t always appear like turning the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat themselves. At the outset, the indications might be tenuous, manifesting as difficulties following discussions, especially in noisy environments, or a progressing feeling that others are speaking illegibly.
Roughly one-third of people aged 65 and older cope with hearing impairment, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their daily activities due to this issue. The issue? Because hearing loss progresses gradually, most people don’t realize how much they’re missing until it starts affecting their relationships, work, or mental health.
Why hearing tests after age 50 matter
Exactly like a yearly physical or vision screening, a hearing exam is a proactive way to protect your health. Here’s why they matter:
Detecting issues promptly results in taking immediate steps
The sooner hearing loss is recognized, the easier it is to deal with. Routine screenings allow audiologists to record changes over time and recommend solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is linked to brain health
Research has revealed a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain expends more effort to make up for the missing information, resulting in increased mental exhaustion and a decline in cognitive abilities over time.
Improved communication results in more solid relationships
Frustration, social isolation, and depression may result from hearing loss. Straining to hear or misinterpreting others on a routine basis can have an unfavorable effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Managing hearing problems helps preserve meaningful connections.
Hearing affects balance and safety
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your equilibrium and spatial awareness. Hearing loss has been linked to an increased risk of falls, especially in older adults.
What to expect while having a hearing exam
A hearing test is simple, painless, and usually takes less than an hour. You’ll consult with an audiologist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Utilize headphones to evaluate your auditory perception of a variety of frequencies
- Possibly perform speech recognition tests or other assessments
If hearing impairment is identified, you’ll explore potential solutions, such as using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making changes to your daily habits to improve your total auditory well-being.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
Hearing specialists advise having an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having regular checkups every year or every other year, 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
- Already wear hearing aids
Don’t wait to have your hearing examined
How you interact with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Getting regular screenings once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental acuity, social relationships, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.
Not sure where to start? Contact us today to book a hearing assessment. Hearing specialists are available to assist you in maintaining your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply want reassurance.
