With age, we typically become more cautious about our well-being, going to routine medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and undergoing routine assessments to stay on top of our physical wellness. Our hearing is a crucial element that is frequently neglected.
Many people are not aware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which frequently develops slowly, particularly as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing exams are fast, pain-free, and can make a huge difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common (and often silent) problem
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily noticeable as continuously raising the volume or frequently asking others to talk louder. It can be subtle initially, like missing parts of conversations, especially in noisy places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more frequently.
In fact, 1 in 3 people over age 65 has hearing loss, and about 28% over 52 have difficulty with day-to-day activities because of this. The problem? Because hearing loss develops gradually, most people don’t realize how much they’re missing until it starts affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
Why hearing exams after age 50 make a difference
Exactly like a yearly physical or vision assessment, a hearing test is a proactive way to protect your health. Here’s why they make a difference:
Identifying issues quickly leads to taking immediate measures
It is easier to manage hearing loss when detected early. Regular screenings enable audiologists to keep track of changes and suggest treatments before the issue advances further.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Research has revealed a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing 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.
Strengthened communication results in more solid connections
Hearing loss can cause aggravation, social withdrawal, and even depression. Struggling to hear or misinterpreting others on a regular basis can have an unfavorable effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Addressing hearing issues helps preserve meaningful relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
In addition to helping in your ability to hear, your ears also contribute to maintaining your balance and spatial alignment. Older adults are at a higher risk of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What to expect while having a hearing exam
A hearing test is basic, painless, and typically takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Discuss any symptoms or concerns
- Use headphones to test how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing impairment is detected, you’ll explore potential solutions, such as using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to enhance your overall auditory health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Hearing specialists advise getting an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having regular checkups every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background connected to hearing issues
- Work or have worked in loud settings
- Already wear hearing aids
Take control of your hearing health now
Your hearing impacts how you communicate with the world. Having regular screenings 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.
Need assistance getting started? Contact us today to book a hearing evaluation. Hearing specialists are available to help you in preserving your hearing health and providing support, whether you have observed any changes or simply want reassurance.