As we get older, we have a tendency to keep a close eye on our health, regular checkups, blood pressure checks, and eye exams. But one vital area commonly gets neglected: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many individuals realize, and it can creep in slowly, particularly after age 50. The good news? Regular hearing exams are fast, pain-free, and can make a significant difference in your general well being and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a prevalent problem that is often undetected
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily detectable as continuously raising the volume or regularly requesting people to speak louder. It can be subtle initially, like missing parts of conversations, particularly in noisy places, or feeling like 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 difficulties in their daily tasks due to this problem. The main problem stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress slowly, leading people to frequently underestimate the degree of their impairment until it begins to affect their social connections, job performance, or emotional health.
The significance of regular hearing tests for adults over 50
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, having a hearing assessment can help protect your well-being. Let’s explore the significance of these evaluations:
Early detection means early action
The sooner hearing loss is recognized, the easier it is to deal with. Routine assessments allow audiologists to track changes over time and suggest solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
The health of your hearing is linked to the health of your brain
Research has shown that neglected hearing loss is associated with an increased danger of mental decline and dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental fatigue and a decline in cognitive abilities over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Hearing loss can lead to frustration, social solitude, and even depression. Struggling to hear or misunderstanding others on a routine basis can have a negative impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Enhancing hearing can help maintain important relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to helping in your ability to hear, your ears also contribute to maintaining your balance and spatial alignment. Hearing loss has been linked to an increased risk of falls, especially in older adults.
What to expect while having a hearing test
A hearing exam is basic, painless, and usually takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Make use of headphones to assess your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing impairment is identified, you’ll explore potential strategies, such as using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making changes to your daily habits to enhance your overall auditory health.
How often 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, especially if you:
- Notice changes in your hearing
- Have a family history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in loud settings
- Already wear hearing aids
Take control of your hearing health today
How you engage with the world is influenced by your ability to hear. Routine screenings after 50 can help you remain sharp, socially active, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can schedule.
Not sure where to begin? Contact us today to book a hearing assessment. 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!
