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 health. But one vital area often gets neglected: our hearing!
Many individuals are unaware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which frequently advances gradually, particularly as people reach the age of 50 and older. The positive side is that regular 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 loss: a common issue that is frequently unnoticed
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 at first, like missing out on parts of conversations, especially in noisy places, or feeling like people are mumbling more frequently.
Roughly one-third of individuals aged 65 and older experience hearing impairment, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their daily activities as a result of this problem. The issue? Because hearing loss advances slowly, most individuals don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it begins affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
Why hearing exams after age 50 make a difference
Exactly like a yearly physical or vision screening, a hearing exam is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Early detection means early action
It is easier to manage hearing loss when detected early. Regular screenings enable audiologists to monitor changes and recommend treatments before the issue progresses further.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Research has revealed that neglected hearing loss is associated with a higher risk of mental decline and dementia.
When hearing is jeopardized, the brain uses more effort to make up for the missing information, resulting in increased mental fatigue and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Improved communication results in more solid relationships
Hearing loss can cause frustration, social solitude, and even depression. Struggling to hear or misunderstanding others on a regular basis can have a negative impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Enhancing hearing can help maintain significant 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 alignment. Hearing loss has been connected to an increased risk of falls, specifically in older people.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing exam is simple, painless, and usually takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or worries
- Use headphones to test how well you hear various tones and pitches
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll explore potential solutions, such as using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your daily habits to enhance your total auditory health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Hearing specialists suggest getting an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having routine exams every year or every other year, particularly if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background linked to hearing issues
- Work or have worked in loud settings
- You are a current hearing aid user
Don’t hesitate to get your hearing checked
Your hearing impacts how you connect with the world. Having regular screenings once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental focus, social connections, and autonomy. Furthermore, scheduling these appointments is a straightforward way to monitor your health.
Need help getting started? Reach out to us now to schedule a comprehensive hearing test. 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.