As we journey through life, our bodies undergo a multitude of changes, underlining the paramount significance of prioritizing our health and well-being. As we cross the threshold of 50 years, there’s a unique need to pay meticulous attention to our physical condition. Among the numerous health checks that deserve our attention, the one that stands out is our hearing health.
If you are over 50 years old, Dr. Jenn Schumacher, an audiologist at ReSound, sheds light on the significance of regular hearing health checks, emphasizing their pivotal role in preserving not just auditory abilities, but the essence of our connections with the world.
Hearing Health Checks
Hearing loss is a common age-related issue that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Regular hearing health checks are crucial for individuals over 50, to identify any changes in their hearing abilities. A comprehensive hearing evaluation, conducted by an audiologist, can assess hearing sensitivity, identify the type and degree of hearing loss, and determine appropriate interventions.
Regular hearing health checks enable early detection of hearing loss, allowing for timely intervention through the use of hearing aids or other assistive devices. Addressing hearing loss not only improves communication and social interactions, but also reduces the risk of cognitive decline and mental health issues associated with untreated hearing loss. In fact, a recent Lancet study shows that hearing aids may cut the risk of cognitive decline by nearly half.
It’s important to note that even if you haven’t noticed any significant hearing difficulties, it is still recommended to undergo periodic hearing evaluations to monitor any subtle changes in your hearing abilities.
Understanding Age-Related Hearing Loss
Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is a common phenomenon as we grow older. It typically affects both ears equally and progresses gradually, making it challenging to notice its onset. High-frequency sounds, such as the chirping of birds or the ringing of a telephone, often become harder to hear. While age-related hearing loss is a common condition, it’s important to recognize that there are ways to address and manage it effectively.
The Impact of Untreated Hearing Loss
Untreated hearing loss can have profound consequences on various aspects of our lives. Communication with family, friends, and colleagues might become strained, leading to feelings of isolation and withdrawal. Social activities that were once a source of joy can turn into sources of stress and frustration. Additionally, untreated hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of conditions like dementia. This connection highlights the intricate relationship between our auditory and cognitive health.
Early Detection
The journey to maintaining healthy hearing begins with awareness. Regular hearing health checks play a pivotal role in detecting changes in hearing abilities early on. Skilled audiologists can conduct comprehensive evaluations that assess hearing sensitivity, identify the type and degree of hearing loss, and recommend appropriate interventions. These evaluations are not only a means to address existing hearing difficulties but also to track any subtle changes over time.
The Role of Hearing Aids
Modern technology offers a remarkable solution to address hearing loss: hearing aids. These discreet devices are designed to amplify sound and improve speech understanding. The advent of digital hearing aids has revolutionized the experience for users, offering personalized adjustments, connectivity to digital devices, and enhanced comfort. By seeking guidance from professionals, individuals can find the right hearing aids that cater to their specific needs and preferences.
Auditory Wellness
The importance of hearing health checks for those over 50 cannot be overstated. By taking proactive steps to monitor and manage hearing health, individuals can continue to relish the joys of clear communication, engage in social interactions, and nurture their cognitive well-being.
How to get help?
Treating hearing loss can not only improve the health of the person suffering but also those around them, having a dramatically positive effect on their social relationships and love life. That’s why it is important to regularly check on your hearing health, especially as we age. If you are concerned about your hearing, it’s time to seek the help of a professional audiologist.
There are also online hearing tests for those not ready to visit an audiologist, which can offer some further information on possible hearing difficulties and the best next steps to take to address them.
—
This post was previously published on resound.com.
***
You Might Also Like These From The Good Men Project
Compliments Men Want to Hear More Often 
Relationships Aren’t Easy, But They’re Worth It 
The One Thing Men Want More Than Sex 
..A Man’s Kiss Tells You Everything Join The Good Men Project as a Premium Member today.
All Premium Members get to view The Good Men Project with NO ADS.
A $50 annual membership gives you an all access pass. You can be a part of every call, group, class and community.
A $25 annual membership gives you access to one class, one Social Interest group and our online communities.
A $12 annual membership gives you access to our Friday calls with the publisher, our online community.
Register New Account
Log in if you wish to renew an existing subscription.
Username
First Name
Last Name
Password
Password Again
Choose your subscription level
- Yearly - $50.00 - 1 Year
- Monthly - $6.99 - 1 Month
Credit / Debit Card PayPal Choose Your Payment Method
Auto Renew
Subscribe to The Good Men Project Daily Newsletter By completing this registration form, you are also agreeing to our Terms of Service which can be found here.Need more info? A complete list of benefits is here.
—
Photo credit: iStock
The post The Vital Importance of Hearing Health for Individuals Over 50 appeared first on The Good Men Project.
Original Article
