With age, we often become more cautious about our health, scheduling regular medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and undergoing regular screenings to stay on top of our physical wellness. Our hearing is a crucial element that is frequently neglected.
Many people are unaware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which often advances slowly, specifically as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing tests are quick, painless, and can make a significant difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common issue that is often unnoticed
Hearing loss doesn’t always look like cranking the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat themselves. At the outset, the signs may be faint, manifesting as difficulties following conversations, especially in noisy environments, or a progressing feeling that people are speaking indistinctly.
Approximately one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing loss, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their daily activities as a result of this problem. The primary issue stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to advance gradually, leading people to frequently undervalue the extent of their impairment until it starts to impact their social relationships, job performance, or emotional well being.
The importance of regular hearing checks for people over 50
Exactly like an annual physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they make a difference:
Early diagnosis means early response
It is easier to manage hearing loss when recognized early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to keep track of changes and suggest interventions before the issue progresses further.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
That’s because the brain works harder to “fill in the gaps” when hearing is impaired, which can result in mental exhaustion and reduced cognitive function over time.
Improved communication results in more solid relationships
Hearing loss can lead to frustration, social solitude, and even depression. When you’re constantly straining to hear or misunderstanding others, it can take a toll on your personal and professional life. Improving hearing can help preserve important relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
In addition to helping in your ability to hear, your ears also support maintaining your balance and spatial alignment. Older adults are at a higher danger of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological assessment is a quick and relaxed process that typically takes less than 60 minutes. You will consult with a hearing specialist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Use headphones to test how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is identified, you’ll discuss options, which may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
Experts recommend a baseline hearing exam at age 50, followed by annual or biannual checkups, 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
Don’t hesitate to get your hearing examined
How you interact with the world is influenced by your ability to hear. Getting regular assessments once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental focus, social relationships, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.
Not certain where to begin? 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!