Many people tend to put up with hearing loss as a part of life. Yet, even slight hearing loss can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life and can lead to cognitive decline. That is why the answer to the question of how often I should get my hearing checked is so critical.
However, when answering the question of how often you should get your hearing checked, the answer will be different for each individual. Indeed, there are a whole range of issues to consider, such as age and risk factors, as well as whether you already have hearing loss and whether you wear a hearing aid. Also, even people that have no signs of hearing loss should get checked regularly to ensure the long-term health of their ears. Keep reading to get more details on each factor below.
Different types of hearing checks?
Not all hearing tests are the same, and before we get on to how often you need a check, it’s a good idea to understand what different types are available.
Screening: Suitable for Anyone, Even Those Without Hearing Loss Symptoms
The first type is known as screening and is quick to complete. It usually takes the form of a questionnaire based on your day-to-day experience and doesn’t require you to listen to any particular sounds. You can find screening checks online.
The great thing about a screening test is that you can take it even if you don’t have any symptoms of hearing loss. In essence, a screening test is like a check-up for your ears and is valuable to people of all ages and in walks of life as it helps them to determine whether their hearing would benefit from further investigation.
Testing: Suitable for Those Concerned They Are Experiencing Hearing Loss
Testing on the other hand is a little different. Testing is designed for people that are concerned they may have hearing loss. This type of check does include listening for specific sounds generated in the test. It usually also requires the use of a sound-proof booth and audiogram, which means you will need the expertise and equipment of a professional hearing instrument specialist (HIS) to be able to sit the test.
Work Environment
The first of these is if you work in a particularly loud environment. This can include those working in construction, manufacturing and even in music and events. The key figure here is if you are regularly exposed to sounds more than 85 decibels? If this is the case then attending a screening once every two to three years will ensure you maintain your aural health and catch any signs of potential hearing loss early.
60 and Above
However, the same services are not always available for all adults. Indeed, adults over the age of 60 should be getting a hearing test at least every few years, even if they have no symptoms. Of course, if they do notice an issue, getting as comprehensive a test as possible is the best course of action.
You Already Have Hearing Loss
Hearing loss isn’t static. This means it changes over time, and because of this, anyone that is already experiencing hearing loss should get tested regularly to check on the progress of their condition and whether they require any additional treatment and support.
You Wear a Hearing Aid
Of course, one of the most effective forms of support for those experiencing hearing loss is to use a hearing aid. Indeed, those that wear an aid should have a fully comprehensive check each year. The reason for this is that having accurate result tests can make a big difference to the types of hearing aids you may need, as well as the features you select for the best performance.
Book a Hearing Test Today
If you would like to find out more about hearing tests or book a comprehensive test, contact our hearing instrument specialist professionals at Audio Hearing Aid Service at 330-244-9881 or 330-364-6637, today.
