With age, we often become more cautious about our well-being, going to routine medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing regular assessments to stay on top of our physical health. Our hearing is a crucial aspect that is frequently neglected.
Many individuals are not aware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which often advances gradually, especially as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing tests are fast, pain-free, and can make a huge difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common (and often quiet) issue
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily detectable as constantly adjusting the volume or frequently asking others to talk louder. It can be subtle at first, like missing parts of conversations, particularly in noisy places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more often.
Roughly one-third of individuals aged 65 and older cope with hearing impairment, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their daily tasks as a result of this problem. The problem? Because hearing loss progresses slowly, most individuals don’t realize how much they’re missing until it begins affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
The significance of regular hearing checks for people over 50
Exactly like a yearly physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they make a difference:
Early detection means early action
It is easier to manage hearing loss when recognized early. Regular screenings enable audiologists to monitor changes and recommend interventions before the problem progresses further.
The health of your hearing is linked to the health of your brain
Research has revealed a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
That’s because the brain struggles to “fill in the gaps” when hearing is impaired, which can result in mental exhaustion and decreased cognitive function over time.
Improved communication results in more solid connections
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social withdrawal, and even depression. When you’re continuously struggling to hear or misunderstanding others, it can have a negative affect on your personal and professional life. Enhancing hearing can help maintain important relationships.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
In addition to helping in your ability to hear, your ears also support maintaining your balance and spatial orientation. Hearing loss has been linked to an increased risk of falls, specifically in older adults.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological evaluation is a quick and relaxed process that typically lasts under an hour. You will meet with a hearing specialist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or worries
- 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 might include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle changes to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
Experts suggest a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by annual or biannual checkups, particularly if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family background linked to hearing issues
- Work or have worked in noisy settings
- Already wear hearing aids
Take control of your hearing health now
How you interact with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Having routine assessments once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental acuity, social connections, and autonomy. Furthermore, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.
Need help getting started? 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!
