With age, we often become more vigilant about our health, scheduling routine medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and having routine screenings to stay on top of our physical wellness. Our hearing is a crucial element that is frequently overlooked.
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many people realize, and it can sneak in gradually, especially after age 50. The silver lining is that routine hearing evaluations are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive effect on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing loss: a prevalent problem that is frequently undetected
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, especially in noisy places, or feeling like people are mumbling more often.
In fact, 1 in 3 people over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and around 28% over 52 have difficulty with day-to-day tasks because of this. The primary issue derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to advance slowly, leading people to often undervalue the extent of their impairment until it begins to affect their social connections, job performance, or emotional health.
Why hearing exams after age 50 matter
Just like a yearly physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they make a difference:
Identifying issues quickly leads to taking immediate steps
It is easier to manage hearing loss when recognized early. Routine screenings enable audiologists to monitor changes and recommend treatments before the issue progresses further.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to make up for the missing information, resulting in increased mental fatigue and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social solitude, and even depression. When you’re constantly struggling to hear or misinterpreting others, it can have a negative affect on your personal and professional life. Addressing hearing issues helps preserve meaningful connections.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your equilibrium and spatial awareness. Hearing loss has been connected to an increased risk of falls, particularly in older adults.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing exam is basic, painless, and usually takes under an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Use headphones to test how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing impairment is detected, you’ll explore potential solutions, including wearing hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your daily habits to improve your total auditory health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Experts recommend a baseline hearing exam at age 50, followed by annual or biannual appointments, especially if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background linked to hearing issues
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- Already wear hearing aids
Don’t wait to have your hearing examined
Your hearing impacts how you communicate with the world. Getting regular assessments once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental acuity, social relationships, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a straightforward way to monitor your health.
Not certain where to start? Reach out to us now to schedule a comprehensive hearing assessment. Hearing specialists are available to assist you in preserving your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply want reassurance.