With age, we often become more cautious about our health, scheduling routine medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and undergoing routine screenings to stay on top of our physical health. But one essential area commonly gets overlooked: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more common than many individuals recognize, and it can sneak in gradually, particularly after age 50. The good news? Routine hearing tests are quick, painless, and can make a significant difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing impairment: a prevalent issue that is frequently undetected
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily noticeable as constantly raising the volume or regularly requesting others to talk louder. It can be subtle initially, like missing out on 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 loss, while nearly 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their daily activities as a result of this issue. The issue? Because hearing loss develops slowly, most people don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it starts impacting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
The significance of regular hearing tests for people over 50
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, having a hearing assessment can help protect your health. Let’s discover the importance of these evaluations:
Early diagnosis means early response
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 problem becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Studies have revealed that neglected hearing loss is associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain expends more effort to make up for the missing information, resulting in increased mental fatigue and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Strengthened communication leads to more solid relationships
Hearing loss can lead to aggravation, social solitude, and even depression. Straining to hear or misunderstanding others on a routine basis can have a negative impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Improving hearing can help maintain significant relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
In addition to assisting in your ability to hear, your ears also support maintaining your balance and spatial alignment. Older people are at a higher danger of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing exam is basic, painless, and usually takes less than an hour. You’ll consult with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Utilize headphones to evaluate your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll go over options, which may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you have a hearing assessment?
Hearing specialists advise having an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having routine exams every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family history of hearing loss
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- Already wear hearing aids
Take control of your hearing health today
How you interact with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Routine assessments after 50 can help you remain sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can get.
Not certain where to start? 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!
