With age, we typically become more vigilant about our health, going to regular medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing regular assessments to stay on top of our physical health. But one vital area commonly gets neglected: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many individuals recognize, and it can sneak in slowly, particularly after age 50. The silver lining is that routine hearing evaluations are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive effect on both your physical well-being and day-to-day life.
Hearing impairment: a prevalent issue that is often unnoticed
Hearing loss doesn’t always look like turning the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat what they said. At the outset, the signs might be faint, materializing as difficulties following discussions, particularly in noisy settings, or a growing sense that people are speaking illegibly.
Roughly one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing loss, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their everyday activities as a result of this issue. The primary issue derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress slowly, leading people to frequently undervalue the degree of their impairment until it begins to impact their social connections, work performance, or emotional well being.
Why hearing tests after age 50 matter
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye examination, having a hearing assessment can help safeguard your well-being. Let’s explore the importance of these assessments:
Identifying issues quickly results in taking immediate steps
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when detected early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to keep track of changes and recommend interventions before the problem advances further.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has shown that neglected hearing loss is linked to a higher danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain uses more effort to make up 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 constantly straining to hear or misinterpreting others, it can take a toll on your personal and professional life. Managing hearing problems helps preserve meaningful relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to aiding in your ability to hear, your ears also contribute to maintaining your balance and spatial orientation. Older people are at a higher risk of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What to expect during a hearing exam
An audiological evaluation is a fast and relaxed process that normally lasts less than an hour. 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
- Sometimes perform speech recognition tests or other assessments
If hearing impairment is detected, you’ll explore potential strategies, including using hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your day-to-day habits to improve your overall auditory health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Experts recommend a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by annual or biannual appointments, especially if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background linked to hearing issues
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- You are a current hearing aid user
Don’t wait to have your hearing examined
How you interact with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Getting regular screenings once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental focus, social relationships, and autonomy. Furthermore, scheduling these appointments is a straightforward way to monitor your health.
Need help getting started? Reach out to us now to schedule a comprehensive hearing test. Hearing specialists are available to assist you in maintaining your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply want reassurance.