With age, we often become more cautious about our health, scheduling regular medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and undergoing routine assessments to stay on top of our physical wellness. But one crucial area often gets overlooked: our hearing!
Many individuals are unaware of the pervasiveness of hearing loss, which frequently advances slowly, especially as people reach the age of 50 and older. The positive side is that routine hearing evaluations are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive effect on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing loss: a prevalent problem that is frequently undetected
Hearing loss doesn’t always look like turning the volume all the way up or asking people to repeat themselves. At the outset, the signs may be tenuous, manifesting as difficulties following discussions, especially in loud settings, or a progressing feeling that people are speaking indistinctly.
As a matter of fact, 1 in 3 people over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and around 28% over 52 have difficulty with daily activities as a result. The issue? Because hearing loss advances slowly, most people don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it begins affecting their relationships, work, or mental health.
Why hearing tests after age 50 make a difference
Exactly like a yearly physical or vision screening, a hearing test is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Early detection means early response
It is easier to deal with hearing loss when recognized early. Routine screenings enable audiologists to keep track of changes and recommend treatments before the issue progresses further.
Hearing health is linked to brain health
Research has uncovered a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased likelihood of experiencing a decline in mental function and developing dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to make up for the missing information, leading to increased mental fatigue and a decline in cognitive abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Hearing loss can cause aggravation, social solitude, and even depression. When you’re continuously struggling to hear or misunderstanding others, it can take a toll on your personal and professional life. Addressing hearing problems helps maintain meaningful connections.
Hearing affects balance and safety
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, particularly in older people.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing exam is basic, painless, and usually takes less than an hour. You’ll consult with an audiologist who will:
- Go over any symptoms or worries
- Use headphones to test how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is identified, you’ll explore potential solutions, such as using hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to enhance your overall auditory health.
How frequently should you get a hearing exam?
Hearing specialists suggest having an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having routine checkups every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a family background linked to hearing problems
- Are exposed to loud noises on the job or in past workplaces
- Already wear hearing aids
Don’t hesitate to have your hearing checked
How you interact with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Having regular screenings once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental acuity, social connections, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.
Need help getting started? 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!
The content of this blog is the intellectual property of MedPB.com and is reprinted here with permission.
The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive a personalized free hearing test and hearing loss consultation, call today to set up an appointment.
