As we age, we have a tendency to keep a close watch on our health, routine checkups, blood pressure checks, and eye exams. But one essential area commonly gets neglected: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many individuals realize, and it can sneak in gradually, particularly after age 50. The positive side is that regular hearing assessments are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive impact on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing impairment: a prevalent problem that is frequently undetected
Hearing loss doesn’t always look like cranking the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat what they said. It can be subtle initially, like missing parts of conversations, especially in loud places, or feeling like people are mumbling more often.
As a matter of fact, 1 in 3 adults over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and about 28% over 52 have trouble with day-to-day activities as a result. The primary issue derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress gradually, leading individuals to frequently underestimate the extent of their impairment until it begins to impact their social relationships, job performance, or emotional health.
Why hearing tests after age 50 make a difference
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, having a hearing evaluation can help safeguard your health. Let’s discover the significance of these evaluations:
Early diagnosis means early response
The earlier hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to manage. Regular screenings allow audiologists to record changes over time and recommend solutions before the problem becomes more advanced.
The health of your hearing is linked to the health of your brain
Research has shown that neglected hearing loss is associated with a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, resulting in increased mental exhaustion and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Hearing loss can lead to frustration, social solitude, and even depression. Straining to hear or misunderstanding others on a regular basis can have an unfavorable effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Enhancing hearing can help preserve important relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your equilibrium and spatial awareness. 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 simple, painless, and usually takes under an hour. You’ll consult with an audiologist who will:
- Discuss any symptoms or concerns
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear various tones and pitches
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll go over options, which may 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 appointments, particularly if you:
- Notice changes in your hearing
- Have a family history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in noisy settings
- You are a current hearing aid user
Take control of your hearing health today
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 easiest health checks you can schedule.
Not certain 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!
