As we age, we have a tendency to keep a close watch on our health, regular checkups, blood pressure checks, and eye tests. Our hearing is a crucial aspect that is often overlooked.
Hearing loss is more common than many individuals recognize, and it can sneak in gradually, especially after age 50. The good news? Routine hearing exams are quick, painless, and can make a huge difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing impairment: a common issue that is frequently undetected
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily noticeable as continuously raising the volume or frequently asking people to talk louder. It can be subtle at first, like missing parts of conversations, particularly in noisy places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more frequently.
As a matter of fact, 1 in 3 people over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and about 28% over 52 have difficulty with daily tasks as a result. The main problem derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to advance slowly, leading people to frequently undervalue the degree of their impairment until it starts to affect their social relationships, job performance, or emotional well being.
Why hearing tests after age 50 matter
Just like an annual physical or vision assessment, a hearing exam is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Identifying issues promptly leads to taking immediate steps
The earlier hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to deal with. Regular screenings allow audiologists to track changes over time and suggest solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Research has revealed that untreated hearing loss is linked to a higher danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, resulting in increased mental exhaustion and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Strengthened communication leads to more solid connections
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social solitude, and even depression. When you’re continuously straining to hear or misinterpreting others, it can have a negative affect on your personal and professional life. Improving hearing can help maintain significant relationships.
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 linked to an increased risk of falls, particularly in older adults.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological evaluation is a fast and comfortable process that usually lasts less than 60 minutes. You will consult with a hearing specialist who will:
- Discuss any symptoms or worries
- Utilize headphones to assess your auditory perception of a variety of frequencies
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll discuss options, which may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Hearing specialists advise getting 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 linked to hearing problems
- Work or have worked in noisy environments
- Already wear hearing aids
Take control of your hearing health now
Your hearing impacts how you communicate with the world. Getting routine screenings once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental acuity, social relationships, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.
Need help getting started? Reach out to us now to schedule a comprehensive hearing assessment. 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!
