With age, we typically become more vigilant about our health, going to regular medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and having routine assessments to stay on top of our physical health. Our hearing is a crucial element that is often neglected.
Hearing loss is more common than many individuals recognize, and it can sneak in slowly, particularly after age 50. The positive side is that regular hearing evaluations are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive impact on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing loss: a prevalent (and often quiet) issue
Hearing loss doesn’t always look like turning 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, particularly in loud places, or feeling like people are mumbling more often.
In fact, 1 in 3 adults over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and around 28% over 52 have trouble with daily tasks because of this. The problem? Because hearing loss advances slowly, most individuals don’t realize how much they’re missing until it starts impacting their relationships, work, or mental health.
The importance of regular hearing tests for adults over 50
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye exam, undergoing a hearing evaluation can help protect your well-being. Let’s discover the significance of these assessments:
Identifying problems quickly leads to taking immediate steps
The sooner hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to manage. Regular assessments allow audiologists to track changes over time and suggest solutions before the problem becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is connected to brain health
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in cognitive function and developing dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain expends more effort to compensate for the missing information, resulting in increased mental exhaustion and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Frustration, social isolation, and depression may result from hearing impairment. Struggling to hear or misinterpreting others on a routine basis can have an unfavorable effect on both your personal and professional relationships. Managing hearing issues helps maintain 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 linked to an increased danger of falls, specifically in older adults.
What is a hearing test like?
An audiological evaluation is a fast and relaxed process that typically takes less than 60 minutes. You will meet with a hearing specialist who will:
- Discuss any symptoms or worries
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll discuss 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 advise having an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having routine exams every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family history of hearing loss
- Are exposed to loud sounds on the job or in past workplaces
- Already use hearing aids
Don’t wait to get your hearing examined
Your hearing impacts how you communicate with the world. Regular assessments after 50 can help you remain sharp, socially active, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can get.
Need assistance getting started? 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!