As we age, we have a tendency to keep a close watch on our health, regular exams, blood pressure tests, and eye exams. But one vital area often gets neglected: our hearing!
Many individuals are not aware of the prevalence of hearing loss, which often advances slowly, particularly as individuals reach the age of 50 and older. The positive side is that regular hearing assessments are swift, non-invasive, and can have a profoundly positive effect on both your physical well-being and daily life.
Hearing loss: a common (and often quiet) problem
Not all instances of hearing loss are as easily detectable as continuously adjusting the volume or frequently requesting people to speak louder. At the outset, the indications might be faint, materializing as difficulties following discussions, especially in loud environments, or a progressing feeling that people are speaking indistinctly.
Roughly one-third of individuals aged 65 and older cope with hearing loss, while nearly 28% of those over 52 encounter troubles in their everyday tasks due to this issue. The primary problem stems from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress gradually, leading people to frequently undervalue the degree of their impairment until it starts to impact their social connections, job performance, or emotional well being.
Why hearing exams after age 50 matter
Exactly like a yearly physical or vision assessment, a hearing exam is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Early diagnosis means early response
The sooner hearing loss is recognized, the easier it is to deal with. Routine assessments allow audiologists to record changes over time and recommend solutions before the problem becomes more advanced.
The health of your hearing is connected to the health of your brain
Studies have shown that neglected hearing loss is associated with an increased danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
When hearing is compromised, the brain uses more effort to compensate for the missing information, leading to increased mental exhaustion and a decline in mental abilities over time.
Improved communication leads to more solid relationships
Hearing loss can lead to frustration, social solitude, and even depression. When you’re continuously struggling to hear or misunderstanding others, it can have a negative affect on your personal and professional life. Enhancing hearing can help maintain important relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to aiding in your ability to hear, your ears also contribute to maintaining your balance and spatial alignment. Hearing loss has been connected to an increased risk of falls, particularly in older people.
What to expect while having a hearing test
An audiological assessment is a fast and comfortable process that typically lasts under 60 minutes. You will consult with a hearing specialist who will:
- Share your worries and symptoms
- Make use of headphones to assess your auditory perception of various frequencies
- Carry out tests like speech recognition
If hearing impairment is detected, you’ll explore potential strategies, including using hearing aids, utilizing assistive listening devices, or making changes to your daily habits to enhance your overall auditory health.
How often should you get a hearing exam?
Hearing specialists suggest having an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having regular exams every year or every other year, especially if you:
- Discover some amount of hearing decline
- Have a genetic history of hearing loss
- Work or have worked in loud settings
- Already wear hearing aids
Don’t wait to get your hearing examined
How you engage with the world is determined by your ability to hear. Getting regular screenings once you reach the age of 50 can assist in maintaining your mental focus, social relationships, 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. Hearing specialists are available to assist you in maintaining your hearing health and providing support, whether you have observed any changes or simply seek reassurance.