As we grow older, we tend to keep a close watch on our health, regular exams, blood pressure tests, and eye tests. Our hearing is a critical aspect that is often neglected.
Many individuals are unaware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which often develops slowly, specifically as people reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Regular hearing tests are quick, pain-free, and can make a significant difference in your general health and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a prevalent issue that is often undetected
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily detectable as continuously raising the volume or frequently asking others to talk louder. At the outset, the signs might be tenuous, materializing as difficulties following discussions, particularly in loud environments, or a progressing sense that people are speaking illegibly.
As a matter of fact, 1 in 3 people over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and around 28% over 52 have trouble with day-to-day tasks because of this. The primary problem stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to advance gradually, leading individuals to frequently undervalue the degree of their impairment until it starts to affect their social relationships, job performance, or emotional health.
Why hearing exams after age 50 make a difference
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, undergoing a hearing evaluation can help protect your health. Let’s explore the importance of these assessments:
Detecting problems quickly leads to taking immediate steps
The earlier hearing loss is recognized, the easier it is to manage. Routine screenings allow audiologists to record changes over time and recommend solutions before the problem becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is linked to brain health
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in mental function and developing dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental exhaustion and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social withdrawal, and even depression. Struggling to hear or misinterpreting others on a routine basis can have an unfavorable impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Enhancing hearing can help preserve significant 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. Hearing loss has been connected to an increased danger of falls, especially in older people.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing test is simple, painless, and typically takes under an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or concerns
- Utilize headphones to evaluate your auditory perception of a variety of frequencies
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll explore potential strategies, including wearing hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making changes to your daily habits to enhance your total auditory health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Hearing specialists suggest having an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having regular checkups every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- You are a current hearing aid user
Take control of your hearing health today
How you interact with the world is influenced by your ability to hear. Getting regular assessments once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental acuity, social relationships, and autonomy. Furthermore, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.
Not sure where to start? Reach out to us now to schedule a complete hearing assessment. 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!