With age, we often become more cautious about our well-being, scheduling regular medical appointments, keeping an eye on our vital signs, and having regular screenings to stay on top of our physical health. But one vital area commonly gets overlooked: our hearing!

Hearing loss is more common than many people realize, and it can sneak in gradually, particularly after age 50. The good news? Regular hearing exams are fast, painless, and can make a significant difference in your overall well being and quality of life!

Hearing loss: a prevalent (and often quiet) problem

Not all cases of hearing loss are as easily detectable as constantly raising the volume or frequently asking others to talk louder. 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.

As a matter of fact, 1 in 3 adults over age 65 are experiencing hearing loss, and around 28% over 52 have trouble with day-to-day activities as a result. The issue? Because hearing loss develops gradually, most individuals don’t realize how much they’re missing until it starts affecting their relationships, work, or mental well-being.

The importance of regular hearing checks for adults over 50

Exactly like an annual physical or vision assessment, a hearing test is a proactive way to safeguard your health. Here’s why they matter:

Identifying problems promptly leads to taking immediate measures

It is easier to deal with hearing loss when recognized early. Regular screenings allow audiologists to keep track of changes and suggest interventions before the problem progresses further.

Hearing health is connected to brain health

Research has revealed a connection between unaddressed hearing loss and an increased probability of experiencing a decline in mental function and developing dementia.
That’s because the brain struggles to “fill in the gaps” when hearing is impaired, which can lead to mental fatigue and reduced mental function over time.

Strengthened communication leads to more solid connections

Hearing loss can lead to aggravation, social solitude, and even depression. When you’re constantly straining to hear or misinterpreting others, it can have a negative affect on your personal and professional life. Improving hearing can help maintain important relationships.

Balance and safety can be impacted by hearing

In addition to helping in your ability to hear, your ears also contribute to maintaining your balance and spatial orientation. Hearing loss has been linked to an increased risk of falls, particularly in older adults.

What to expect during a hearing test

An audiological assessment is a fast and comfortable process that typically lasts less than 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
• Possibly conduct speech recognition tests or other assessments

If hearing loss is identified, you’ll explore potential strategies, such as using hearing aids, using assistive listening devices, or making adjustments to your day-to-day habits to enhance your total auditory well-being.

How frequently should you get a hearing exam?

Hearing specialists advise having an initial hearing evaluation at 50 years old, then having regular exams every year or every other year, particularly if you:

• Detect some amount of hearing decline
• Have a family background linked to hearing problems
• Work or have worked in loud settings
• You are a current hearing aid user

Don’t wait to have your hearing examined

Your hearing affects how you connect with the world. Having routine screenings once you reach the age of 50 can help in maintaining your mental acuity, social relationships, and autonomy. Additionally, scheduling these appointments is a simple way to monitor your health.

Not sure where to start? 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!