How to know when to test your hearing

This post was originally published by Starkey.com.

The signs of hearing loss aren’t always as apparent as chronic pain or other medical issues. Much like vision loss — when a person may begin holding books closer or squinting while driving at night — the signs of hearing loss are usually subtle and gradual. They can even blend in with your life.

For example:

You can “hear” but understanding is tricky.

Your spouse arrives home to tell you about their water aerobics class but lately they sound more like they’re mumbling or talking too quickly.

Conversations are getting harder to keep up with.

At family gatherings, it’s become difficult trying to follow everyone’s news because of the background noise. Even when your trivia-obsessed relative isn’t there.

You’ve been asking others to repeat themselves.

You’ve been saying “What?” more often to colleagues, the cashier, or anyone else you speak with throughout your day.

Any of these could be indicators of hearing loss. And if you didn’t notice them before, that’s not unusual — often those close to us notice before we do.

They may observe:

You rely on others to grasp conversations.

You have your “wing-person” or family members help fill in the missed parts of conversations.

You tend to turn it up.

You boost the TV volume louder than the person watching with you — even when it’s not a live performance by your favorite singer or band.

Talking on the phone can be tough.

Understanding voices is difficult at times. And those on the other end can feel your struggle.

Hearing tests are painless and typically free

Does any of this sound familiar? If so, the best thing to do is get a simple hearing evaluation by a licensed hearing care professional. They’re painless, often free, and can help determine if you even have hearing loss (sometimes, it’s actually just earwax).

If you do have hearing loss, that same hearing care professional can assess it, measure it and consult with you about your options.

Plus, experts recommend getting your hearing tested every three years once you’re 50. So, think of your hearing evaluation like your routine physical or eye exam. You’re taking preventative measures against cognitive decline and dementia (both are linked to hearing loss) while ensuring you’ll never miss a moment:

Imagine everything from hearing the little one’s wish as they blow out the candles (have you noticed they always say it?) to picking out the funniest laugh in the room — that’s way better than cake!

We can help

Not sure how to get a hearing evaluation? We can help. Find your local South Suburban Hearing Health Center and start your hearing journey today!

Even if hearing loss is a part of your life, remember it’s a part that is most likely treatable. Don’t miss a moment of 2023. Schedule a hearing evaluation now.