As we grow older, we tend to keep a close watch on our health, regular checkups, blood pressure checks, and eye exams. But one crucial area often gets overlooked: our hearing!
Many people are unaware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which frequently advances slowly, especially as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The silver lining is that routine hearing assessments are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive impact on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing loss: a prevalent issue that is frequently unnoticed
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily detectable as continuously adjusting the volume or regularly asking people to talk louder. It can be subtle at first, like missing out on parts of conversations, particularly in loud places, or feeling like people are mumbling more often.
Roughly one-third of individuals aged 65 and older cope with hearing loss, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their daily tasks due to this issue. The primary problem stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress gradually, leading individuals to often underestimate the degree of their impairment until it starts to affect their social relationships, job performance, or emotional health.
The significance of regular hearing checks for people over 50
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye examination, undergoing a hearing assessment can help protect your health. Let’s explore the importance of these evaluations:
Identifying problems promptly leads to taking immediate steps
The earlier hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to manage. Routine assessments 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 link between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
That’s because the brain works harder to “fill in the blanks” when hearing is impaired, which can result in mental fatigue and decreased mental function over time.
Improved communication results in more solid relationships
Hearing loss can cause aggravation, social withdrawal, and even depression. When you’re continuously straining to hear or misinterpreting others, it can have a negative affect on your personal and professional life. Addressing hearing problems helps preserve meaningful connections.
Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your balance and spatial awareness. Hearing loss has been connected to an increased risk of falls, especially in older adults.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological assessment is a quick and relaxed process that usually takes less than 60 minutes. You will meet with a hearing specialist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- 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 changes to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Hearing specialists suggest getting an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having routine exams every year or every other year, particularly if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- Already use hearing aids
Take control of your hearing health today
Your hearing impacts how you connect with the world. Regular screenings after 50 can help you remain sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can schedule.
Not sure where to begin? Reach out to us now to schedule a complete 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!