As we grow older, we have a tendency to keep a close eye on our health, routine exams, blood pressure tests, and eye tests. Our hearing is a critical element that is frequently neglected.
Many people are unaware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which often advances gradually, especially as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The good news? Routine hearing exams are quick, painless, and can make a significant difference in your general well being and quality of life!
Hearing loss: a common (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, especially in noisy places, or feeling like people are mumbling more frequently.
Roughly one-third of individuals aged 65 and older cope with hearing impairment, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their daily tasks due to this issue. The primary problem stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to advance slowly, leading individuals to often undervalue the extent of their impairment until it begins to affect their social relationships, job performance, or emotional health.
The importance of routine hearing tests for adults over 50
Similar to getting a yearly check-up or eye examination, having a hearing evaluation can help protect your health. Let’s discover the importance of these evaluations:
Detecting issues quickly leads to taking immediate measures
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 revealed a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability 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 lead to mental fatigue and decreased cognitive function over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Frustration, social seclusion, and depression could result from hearing impairment. Straining to hear or misinterpreting others on a routine basis can have an unfavorable effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Improving hearing can help preserve significant relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to assisting in your ability to hear, your ears also support maintaining your balance and spatial orientation. Hearing loss has been linked 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 lasts less than 60 minutes. You will meet with a hearing specialist who will:
- Discuss any symptoms or concerns
- Use headphones to test how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Sometimes perform speech recognition tests or other evaluations
If hearing loss is identified, 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?
Hearing specialists suggest having an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having regular checkups every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background linked to hearing problems
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- Already wear hearing aids
Don’t wait to have your hearing checked
Your hearing affects how you communicate with the world. Getting routine screenings once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental acuity, social relationships, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a straightforward way to monitor your health.
Not sure where to start? Contact us today to book a 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!