With age, we often become more cautious about our well-being, scheduling regular medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and having regular screenings to stay on top of our physical wellness. Our hearing is a crucial aspect that is frequently overlooked.
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many people recognize, and it can sneak in slowly, especially after age 50. The positive side is that routine hearing assessments 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 frequently undetected
Hearing loss doesn’t always appear like cranking the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat what they said. At the outset, the signs might be tenuous, materializing as difficulties following discussions, particularly in loud settings, or a progressing feeling that people are talking illegibly.
Roughly one-third of people aged 65 and older cope with hearing impairment, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their everyday tasks due to this issue. The primary issue derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress slowly, leading individuals to often undervalue the degree of their impairment until it starts to affect their social relationships, work performance, or emotional well being.
Why hearing tests after age 50 make a difference
Just like an annual physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Early diagnosis means early action
The sooner hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to manage. Regular screenings allow audiologists to record changes over time and recommend solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Research has revealed that untreated hearing loss is associated with a higher danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain expends more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental exhaustion and a decline in cognitive abilities over time.
Strengthened communication leads to more solid relationships
Frustration, social seclusion, and depression may result from hearing loss. Struggling to hear or misunderstanding others on a routine basis can have an unfavorable impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Improving hearing can help maintain important relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your balance and spatial awareness. Older adults are at a higher danger of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What to expect while having a hearing test
An audiological assessment is a quick and comfortable process that usually lasts under 60 minutes. You will consult with a hearing specialist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Utilize headphones to assess your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing impairment is detected, you’ll explore potential solutions, including using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your daily habits to enhance your overall auditory health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Experts recommend a baseline hearing exam at age 50, followed by yearly or biannual appointments, especially if you:
- Notice changes in your hearing
- Have a family history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in loud environments
- Already wear hearing aids
Don’t hesitate to get your hearing examined
Your hearing impacts how you communicate with the world. Regular screenings after 50 can help you remain sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can schedule.
Not certain where to begin? Contact us today to book a hearing assessment. Whether you’ve noticed changes or just want peace of mind, hearing specialists are here to support your hearing– and your health– every step of the way!