With age, we typically become more vigilant about our health, going to regular medical appointments, monitoring our vital signs, and undergoing routine assessments to stay on top of our physical health. But one vital area often gets overlooked: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many people realize, and it can creep in gradually, especially after age 50. The silver lining is that routine hearing evaluations are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive impact on both your physical well-being and day-to-day life.
Hearing impairment: a common issue that is often undetected
Not all cases of hearing loss are as easily detectable as continuously raising the volume or regularly requesting people to speak louder. It can be subtle initially, like missing parts of conversations, especially in loud places, or feeling as if people are mumbling more frequently.
Approximately one-third of people aged 65 and older experience hearing loss, while almost 28% of those over 52 encounter difficulties in their everyday activities as a result of this problem. The issue? Because hearing loss advances gradually, most individuals don’t recognize how much they’re missing until it starts impacting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.
Why hearing tests after age 50 matter
Much like getting a yearly check-up or eye examination, having a hearing assessment can help protect your well-being. Let’s discover the significance of these evaluations:
Identifying problems quickly leads to taking immediate steps
The sooner hearing loss is caught, the easier it is to manage. Regular screenings allow audiologists to track changes over time and recommend solutions before the issue becomes more advanced.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Research has shown that neglected hearing loss is linked to an increased danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain expends more effort to make up for the missing information, resulting in increased mental exhaustion and a decline in cognitive abilities over time.
Better communication, stronger relationships
Hearing loss can lead to frustration, social solitude, and even depression. Straining to hear or misinterpreting others on a regular basis can have a negative impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Managing hearing issues helps preserve 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 test is simple, painless, and typically takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Use headphones to test how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is identified, you’ll discuss options, which might include hearing aids, assistive devices, or lifestyle adjustments to improve your hearing health.
How frequently should you have a hearing evaluation?
Experts recommend a baseline hearing test at age 50, followed by yearly or biannual appointments, especially if you:
- Detect some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Are exposed to loud noises on the job or in past workplaces
- You are a current hearing aid user
Don’t hesitate to have your hearing checked
Your hearing impacts how you connect with the world. Regular assessments after 50 can help you remain sharp, socially active, and independent– and they’re one of the easiest health checks you can schedule.
Not sure where to start? Contact us today to book a hearing evaluation. Hearing specialists are available to help you in maintaining your hearing health and providing support, whether you have observed any changes or simply want reassurance.