As we age, we tend to keep a close watch on our health, regular exams, blood pressure checks, and eye tests. Our hearing is a crucial aspect that is frequently overlooked.
Many individuals are unaware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which often advances slowly, especially as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing tests are quick, pain-free, and can make a huge difference in your overall health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a prevalent (and often silent) issue
Hearing loss doesn’t always look 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 loud places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more often.
Roughly one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing impairment, while nearly 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their everyday activities as a result of this issue. The primary problem stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to advance slowly, leading people to often underestimate the extent of their impairment until it begins to impact their social connections, work performance, or emotional well being.
Why hearing exams after age 50 make a difference
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye examination, having a hearing evaluation can help safeguard your well-being. Let’s explore the importance of these assessments:
Detecting problems quickly results in taking immediate steps
It is easier to manage hearing loss when detected early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to monitor changes and recommend interventions before the problem advances further.
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 mental function and developing dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, 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, better relationships
Frustration, social seclusion, and depression could result from hearing impairment. 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 preserve important relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your balance and spatial awareness. Hearing loss has been linked to an increased danger of falls, especially in older people.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing exam is basic, painless, and usually takes less than an hour. You’ll consult with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing impairment is detected, you’ll explore potential solutions, including wearing hearing aids, utilizing 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 test?
Hearing specialists suggest having an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having routine checkups every year or every other year, particularly if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family background connected to hearing problems
- 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? Contact us today to book a hearing evaluation. Whether you’ve observed changes or just want peace of mind, hearing specialists are here to support your hearing– and your health– every step of the way!