With age, we often become more cautious about our health, going to routine medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and having regular assessments to stay on top of our physical wellness. But one crucial area commonly gets neglected: our hearing!
Many individuals are unaware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which frequently advances gradually, specifically as people reach the age of 50 and older. The silver lining is that routine hearing evaluations are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive impact on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing loss: a prevalent (and often quiet) issue
Not all cases of hearing loss are as easily detectable as continuously raising the volume or regularly asking others to talk louder. It can be subtle initially, like missing parts of conversations, particularly in noisy places, or feeling like people are mumbling more often.
Approximately one-third of people aged 65 and older cope with hearing impairment, while nearly 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their everyday tasks as a result of this issue. The main issue stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress slowly, leading people to frequently underestimate the degree of their impairment until it starts to impact their social relationships, work performance, or emotional well being.
The importance of routine hearing checks for people over 50
Exactly like a yearly physical or vision assessment, a hearing exam is a proactive way to protect your health. Here’s why they matter:
Detecting problems quickly leads to taking immediate measures
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when detected early. Regular screenings enable audiologists to keep track of changes and recommend interventions before the issue progresses further.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has shown that untreated hearing loss is associated with a higher danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain expends more effort to make up for the missing information, leading to increased mental fatigue and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Hearing loss can lead to frustration, social solitude, and even depression. When you’re constantly straining to hear or misunderstanding others, it can have a negative affect on your personal and professional life. Managing hearing issues helps preserve meaningful relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
In addition to aiding 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 to expect while having a hearing test
A hearing test is basic, painless, and usually takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll discuss options, which may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you have a hearing assessment?
Experts suggest a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by annual or biannual appointments, especially if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in noisy settings
- You are a current hearing aid user
Don’t wait to have your hearing examined
Your hearing affects how you connect with the world. Regular assessments after 50 can help you remain sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can get.
Need assistance getting started? Contact us today to book a hearing assessment. Hearing specialists are available to help you in preserving your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply want reassurance.
