With age, we typically become more cautious about our well-being, going to routine medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and having regular screenings to stay on top of our physical health. Our hearing is a critical element that is frequently neglected.
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many individuals realize, and it can creep in slowly, especially after age 50. The good news? Routine hearing tests are fast, pain-free, and can make a significant difference in your general well being and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a prevalent (and often quiet) problem
Hearing loss doesn’t always appear like turning the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat themselves. It can be subtle initially, like missing parts of conversations, particularly in noisy places, or feeling like people are mumbling more often.
In fact, 1 in 3 adults over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and around 28% over 52 have trouble with day-to-day activities as a result. The issue? Because hearing loss develops gradually, most people don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it begins impacting their relationships, work, or mental health.
The importance of routine hearing tests for people over 50
Just like a yearly physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Identifying issues quickly leads to taking immediate steps
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 problem advances further.
The health of your hearing is linked to the health of your brain
Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss is linked to an increased danger of mental decline and dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain expends more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental exhaustion and a decline in cognitive abilities over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social solitude, and even depression. Straining to hear or misinterpreting others on a routine basis can have an unfavorable effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Enhancing hearing can help maintain important relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to assisting in your ability to hear, your ears also contribute to maintaining your balance and spatial orientation. Older adults are at a higher risk of falling when they are coping with hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing test is simple, painless, and typically takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or concerns
- Utilize headphones to assess your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Possibly conduct speech recognition tests or other assessments
If hearing loss is identified, you’ll explore potential solutions, including wearing hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your day-to-day habits to enhance your total auditory health.
How often should you get a hearing test?
Hearing specialists suggest having an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having routine exams every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in loud settings
- You are a current hearing aid user
Don’t wait to have your hearing checked
Your hearing impacts how you communicate with the world. Having routine assessments once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental focus, social relationships, 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. Hearing specialists are available to help you in maintaining your hearing health and providing support, whether you have noticed any changes or simply want reassurance.