With age, we often become more vigilant about our health, scheduling 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 critical element that is often overlooked.
Hearing loss is more common than many individuals recognize, and it can sneak in slowly, particularly after age 50. The silver lining is that routine hearing assessments are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive effect on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing impairment: a prevalent issue that is frequently undetected
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily noticeable as continuously raising the volume or frequently requesting people to speak louder. At the outset, the signs might be faint, materializing as difficulties following conversations, particularly in noisy environments, or a growing feeling that people are talking indistinctly.
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 activities as a result. The issue? Because hearing loss develops slowly, most people don’t realize how much they’re missing until it starts affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
The importance of routine hearing checks for people over 50
Similar to getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, having a hearing assessment can help safeguard your well-being. Let’s discover the significance of these evaluations:
Early detection means early response
It is easier to manage hearing loss when recognized early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to monitor changes and suggest interventions before the problem progresses further.
Hearing health is linked to brain health
Research has uncovered a link between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain expends more effort to make up for the missing information, resulting in increased mental exhaustion and a decline in cognitive abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Hearing loss can cause aggravation, social solitude, 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. Improving hearing can help maintain significant 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 connected to an increased danger of falls, particularly in older people.
What is a hearing test like?
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
- Utilize headphones to evaluate your auditory perception of a variety of frequencies
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is identified, you’ll explore potential strategies, such as wearing hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to improve your overall auditory well-being.
How frequently should you have a hearing assessment?
Hearing specialists advise getting an initial hearing evaluation 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 history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in loud environments
- Already use hearing aids
Don’t hesitate to have your hearing checked
Your hearing affects how you communicate with the world. Regular assessments after 50 can help you remain sharp, socially active, and independent– and they’re one of the easiest health checks you can get.
Not sure where to start? 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!