Hearing Instrument Specialists and Older Adults

Hearing loss is not limited to any certain age group and recent statistics show that people from all ages suffer from hearing loss due to varying reasons. However, the population segment that is most commonly affected by hearing loss is older adults and the elderly. Approximately one in three persons between the ages of 65-75 suffers from some degree of hearing loss, whereas almost 50 percent of people above the age of 75 have difficulty hearing.

Hearing loss in the elderly

Hearing loss is not an easy condition to deal with. For starters, it develops very gradually, making it extremely challenging to detect. People may become hard of hearing due to a variety of reasons, such as too much noise exposure or even a disease or infection. However, the most common reason for developing hearing loss is the simply inevitable factor of age.

Age-related hearing loss is not only common, but also dangerous. It can make it harder for you to understand and follow the doctor’s advice. You may find it difficult to hear important sounds, such as a doorbell, an alarm or a warning. Sometimes, having hearing loss can also be embarrassing and frustrating. You will miss certain parts of a conversation and have trouble participating in social gatherings. Hearing loss can make it challenging for you to enjoy talking with friends and family.

Detecting hearing loss

Doctors recommend that you should go for a hearing screening every three years after the age of 50 so that you can catch the onset of hearing loss in its early stages. Hearing screenings are an important part of detecting hearing loss. This is a small test to see if your hearing is normal. If you fail the hearing screening, you will need to go for a more detailed hearing evaluation of your complete auditory system, including the ear and the brain, to see where the problem lies. Several different tests will be conducted on you to see what the best course of treatment would be for your particular case.

Hearing instrument specialists

Hearing instrument specialists are professionals that specialize in the selection, dispensing and fitting of hearing aids for the purpose of treating hearing loss. When you go to see a hearing instrument specialist, information about your hearing loss, personal preferences and lifestyle will be used to choose the best hearing aid options for you. You may be allowed a trial period to test drive your hearing aids before placing an order for a new pair of hearing aids just for you.

Schedule an appointment with a hearing instrument specialist if you’re concerned you are suffering from hearing loss. Hearing instrument specialists are experts in dispensing, fitting and repairing hearing aids, so don't hesitate to find the right one in your area.