With age, we often become more vigilant about our well-being, going to routine medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing routine screenings to stay on top of our physical health. Our hearing is a crucial aspect that is often neglected.
Many people are not aware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which frequently develops slowly, especially as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The silver lining is that regular hearing assessments are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive effect on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing impairment: a prevalent problem that is frequently unnoticed
Not all cases of hearing loss are as easily detectable as constantly adjusting the volume or regularly requesting others to talk louder. It can be subtle initially, like missing out on parts of conversations, especially in noisy places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more often.
Approximately one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing impairment, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their daily activities as a result of this issue. The primary problem derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress gradually, leading people to frequently underestimate the extent of their impairment until it starts to affect their social connections, work performance, or emotional well being.
Why hearing tests after age 50 make a difference
Similar to getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, undergoing a hearing evaluation can help protect your well-being. Let’s discover the significance of these evaluations:
Early diagnosis means early response
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when detected early. Routine screenings enable audiologists to monitor changes and suggest interventions before the issue advances further.
Hearing health is linked to brain health
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in mental function and developing dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to make up for the missing information, leading to increased mental fatigue and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Hearing loss can cause aggravation, social withdrawal, and even depression. When you’re continuously struggling to hear or misunderstanding others, it can take a toll on your personal and professional life. Managing hearing problems helps maintain meaningful connections.
Hearing affects balance and safety
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your balance and spatial awareness. Older people are at a higher risk of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological evaluation is a fast and relaxed process that typically lasts less than an hour. You will meet with a hearing specialist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or concerns
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Sometimes conduct speech recognition tests or other evaluations
If hearing impairment is detected, you’ll explore potential strategies, such as wearing hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to improve your overall auditory health.
How frequently should you have a hearing assessment?
Hearing specialists suggest having an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having routine exams every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family background connected to hearing issues
- 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 impacts how you connect with the world. Regular screenings after 50 can help you remain 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 assessment. 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.