With age, we typically become more cautious about our health, scheduling regular medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and having routine assessments to stay on top of our physical health. Our hearing is a critical aspect that is frequently neglected.
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many individuals recognize, and it can creep in gradually, particularly after age 50. The good news? Routine hearing exams are fast, pain-free, and can make a huge difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing impairment: a prevalent issue that is often unnoticed
Not all cases of hearing loss are as easily detectable as constantly adjusting the volume or frequently asking others to talk louder. It can be subtle at first, like missing 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 difficulty with daily tasks as a result. The issue? Because hearing loss advances slowly, most individuals don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it begins affecting their relationships, work, or mental health.
The importance of regular hearing checks for people over 50
Similar to getting a yearly check-up or eye examination, having a hearing assessment can help protect your health. Let’s explore the importance of these assessments:
Early detection means early response
The sooner hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to deal with. Regular screenings allow audiologists to track changes over time and recommend solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has revealed a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
That’s because the brain struggles to “fill in the blanks” when hearing is impaired, which can lead to mental fatigue and decreased mental function over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social withdrawal, and even depression. Straining to hear or misunderstanding others on a routine basis can have a negative 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 balance and spatial awareness. Older adults are at a higher risk of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What to expect during a hearing exam
A hearing exam is basic, painless, and usually takes under an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear various tones and pitches
- Possibly perform speech recognition tests or other assessments
If hearing impairment is identified, you’ll explore potential solutions, including wearing hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your daily habits to improve your overall auditory well-being.
How frequently should you get a hearing test?
Hearing specialists advise having an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having regular exams every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family background linked to hearing issues
- Are exposed to loud noises on the job or in past workplaces
- You are a current hearing aid user
Take control of your hearing health now
How you engage with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Having routine screenings once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental focus, social connections, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a straightforward way to monitor your health.
Not sure where to start? Contact us today to book a hearing evaluation. Whether you’ve noticed changes or just want peace of mind, hearing specialists are here to support your hearing– and your health– every step of the way!