With age, we typically become more cautious about our well-being, going to regular medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and having routine screenings to stay on top of our physical health. Our hearing is a crucial aspect that is frequently overlooked.
Many people are not aware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which frequently develops slowly, specifically as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing tests are fast, painless, and can make a huge difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common (and often silent) issue
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily noticeable as constantly adjusting the volume or regularly requesting people to talk louder. It can be subtle initially, like missing parts of conversations, especially in loud places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more frequently.
Roughly one-third of individuals aged 65 and older cope with hearing impairment, while nearly 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their everyday activities as a result of this issue. 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 starts to impact their social relationships, job performance, or emotional health.
The importance of routine hearing checks for adults over 50
Just like an annual physical or vision assessment, a hearing exam is a proactive way to protect your health. Here’s why they matter:
Identifying problems promptly results in taking immediate steps
It is easier to manage hearing loss when recognized early. Regular screenings enable audiologists to keep track of changes and recommend treatments before the problem progresses further.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has revealed a link between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, resulting in increased mental fatigue and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger 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 connected to an increased danger of falls, especially in older adults.
What to expect while having a hearing exam
An audiological evaluation is a fast and relaxed process that typically takes less than 60 minutes. You will meet with a hearing specialist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear various tones and pitches
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll go over options, which might include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
Experts suggest a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by yearly or biannual appointments, especially if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background connected to hearing problems
- Work or have worked in noisy environments
- Already wear hearing aids
Take control of your hearing health now
How you engage with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Getting routine assessments once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental acuity, social relationships, and autonomy. Furthermore, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.
Need assistance getting started? Reach out to us now to schedule a complete hearing test. 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!