As we grow older, we have a tendency to keep a close eye on our health, regular exams, blood pressure tests, and eye tests. But one crucial area commonly gets overlooked: our hearing!
Many individuals are not aware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which frequently advances slowly, specifically as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The silver lining is that regular hearing assessments are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive effect on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing loss: a prevalent (and often quiet) issue
Hearing loss doesn’t always look like turning the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat themselves. At the outset, the signs might be tenuous, manifesting as difficulties following discussions, especially in loud settings, or a growing feeling that people are talking indistinctly.
Approximately one-third of individuals aged 65 and older experience hearing loss, while nearly 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their daily activities due to this issue. The problem? Because hearing loss develops slowly, most people don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it starts affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
The significance of routine hearing checks for people over 50
Just like a yearly physical or vision assessment, a hearing exam is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Early diagnosis means early action
The earlier hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to manage. Regular assessments allow audiologists to record changes over time and suggest solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has revealed a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia. When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental fatigue and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Frustration, social seclusion, and depression could result from hearing loss. When you’re continuously straining to hear or misunderstanding others, it can take a toll on your personal and professional life. Enhancing hearing can help preserve important relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to assisting in your ability to hear, your ears also contribute to maintaining your balance and spatial alignment. Hearing loss has been linked to an increased risk of falls, particularly in older adults.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing test 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 assess your auditory perception of a variety of frequencies
- Possibly perform speech recognition tests or other assessments
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 exam at age 50, followed by yearly or biannual checkups, particularly if you:
- Notice changes in your hearing
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in noisy environments
- Already use hearing aids
Take control of your hearing health now
How you engage with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Having routine assessments once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental acuity, social relationships, and autonomy. Furthermore, scheduling these appointments is a straightforward way to monitor your health.
Not sure where to start? 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!