With age, we often become more cautious about our health, scheduling regular medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing routine assessments to stay on top of our physical health. But one vital area commonly gets overlooked: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more common than many people recognize, and it can sneak in slowly, particularly after age 50. The good news? Regular hearing exams are quick, 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 look like cranking the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat what they said. At the outset, the indications may be faint, manifesting as difficulties following conversations, particularly in noisy settings, or a growing sense that others are talking illegibly.
Roughly one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing loss, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their everyday tasks as a result of this issue. The main problem derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress gradually, leading individuals to often underestimate the extent of their impairment until it begins to affect their social connections, job performance, or emotional well being.
Why hearing tests after age 50 matter
Similar to getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, having a hearing evaluation can help protect your health. Let’s explore the importance of these assessments:
Early diagnosis means early action
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when detected early. Routine screenings allow audiologists to monitor changes and suggest treatments before the issue progresses further.
The health of your hearing is linked to the health of your brain
Research has uncovered a link between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in mental function and developing dementia.
That’s because the brain struggles to “fill in the gaps” when hearing is impaired, which can result in mental fatigue and reduced cognitive function over time.
Strengthened communication leads to more solid connections
Frustration, social seclusion, and depression may result from hearing loss. Struggling to hear or misunderstanding others on a routine basis can have a negative effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Improving hearing can help maintain important relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
Your ears do more than help you hear– they also play a role in your equilibrium and spatial awareness. Older adults are at a higher danger of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing exam is simple, painless, and typically takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or worries
- Utilize headphones to assess your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll go over options, which may include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you have a hearing assessment?
Experts suggest a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by annual or biannual checkups, especially if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family background connected to hearing problems
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- Already use hearing aids
Don’t wait to get your hearing checked
Your hearing impacts how you connect with the world. Routine screenings after 50 can help you stay sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can get.
Not sure where to start? Reach out to us now to schedule a complete hearing test. 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!