With age, we often become more vigilant about our well-being, going to routine medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and undergoing routine screenings to stay on top of our physical health. But one vital area often gets neglected: our hearing!
Hearing loss is more prevalent than many individuals recognize, and it can sneak in gradually, particularly after age 50. The silver lining is that regular 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 loss: a prevalent (and often quiet) issue
Hearing loss doesn’t always look like cranking 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, especially in loud places, or feeling like people are mumbling more often.
In fact, 1 in 3 people over age 65 has hearing loss, and around 28% over 52 have trouble with day-to-day activities as a result. The primary issue derives from the fact that hearing loss tends to progress gradually, leading people to often undervalue the degree of their impairment until it begins to impact their social connections, work performance, or emotional health.
The importance of routine hearing checks for adults over 50
Just like an annual physical or vision screening, a hearing exam is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:
Early diagnosis means early action
The earlier hearing loss is recognized, the easier it is to deal with. Routine assessments allow audiologists to track changes over time and suggest solutions before the problem becomes more advanced.
Hearing health is linked to brain health
Research has revealed that untreated hearing loss is linked to an increased danger of cognitive decline and dementia.
That’s because the brain works harder to “fill in the gaps” when hearing is impaired, which can lead to mental exhaustion and decreased mental function over time.
Better communication, better relationships
Hearing loss can cause aggravation, social withdrawal, and even depression. Straining to hear or misunderstanding others on a routine basis can have a negative impact on both your personal and professional relationships. Addressing hearing problems helps maintain meaningful relationships.
Hearing affects balance and safety
In addition to aiding in your ability to hear, your ears also support maintaining your balance and spatial orientation. Older people are at a higher danger of falling when they experience hearing loss.
What is a hearing test like?
A hearing test is simple, painless, and usually takes less than an hour. You’ll meet with an audiologist who will:
- Share your concerns and symptoms
- Use headphones to assess how well you hear different tones and pitches
- Perform tests like speech recognition
If hearing loss is detected, you’ll explore potential strategies, including wearing hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making changes to your day-to-day habits to enhance your total auditory health.
How often should you get a hearing exam?
Hearing specialists advise getting an initial hearing test at 50 years old, then having routine checkups every year or every other year, particularly if you:
- Detect changes in your hearing
- Have a family background connected to hearing problems
- Are exposed to loud noises on the job or in past workplaces
- You are a current hearing aid user
Take control of your hearing health now
How you engage with the world is influenced by your ability to hear. Routine screenings after 50 can help you stay sharp, social, and independent– and they’re one of the simplest health checks you can schedule.
Not sure where to begin? Contact us today to book a hearing evaluation. Whether you’ve noticed changes or just want peace of mind, hearing specialists are here to support your hearing– and your health– every step of the way!
