With age, we often become more cautious about our well-being, scheduling routine medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing routine screenings to stay on top of our physical health. But one essential area commonly gets overlooked: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many people recognize, and it can creep in gradually, particularly after age 50. The good news? Regular hearing tests are quick, painless, and can make a significant difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common (and often silent) problem
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily detectable as constantly raising the volume or regularly asking people to talk louder. It can be subtle at first, like missing out on parts of conversations, especially in loud places, or feeling like people are mumbling more frequently.
As a matter of fact, 1 in 3 adults over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and about 28% over 52 have trouble with daily tasks as a result. The issue? Because hearing loss advances slowly, most people don’t realize how much they’re missing until it begins affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
Why hearing exams after age 50 matter
Exactly like an annual physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to protect your health. Here’s why they make a difference:
Early diagnosis means early action
It is easier to manage hearing loss when recognized early. Routine screenings enable audiologists to keep track of changes and recommend treatments before the problem progresses further.
The health of your hearing is linked to the health of your brain
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental fatigue and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Hearing loss can lead to aggravation, social withdrawal, and even depression. When you’re constantly straining to hear or misunderstanding others, it can have a negative affect on your personal and professional life. Addressing hearing problems helps preserve meaningful relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
In addition to helping in your ability to hear, your ears also support maintaining your balance and spatial alignment. Older people are at a higher danger of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological assessment is a quick and comfortable process that typically takes less than 60 minutes. You will meet with a hearing specialist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear various tones and pitches
- Sometimes perform speech recognition tests or other evaluations
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll explore potential strategies, such as using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your day-to-day habits to enhance your overall auditory health.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
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 changes in your hearing
- Have a family background connected to hearing issues
- 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
Your hearing impacts how you communicate with the world. Regular screenings after 50 can help you remain sharp, socially active, 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 maintaining your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply seek reassurance.
