Hearing Tests for Seniors: What You Should Know

It is perfectly normal for your senses to change as you get older. One of the most common senses that changes as you move into your senior years is your hearing. This is for many reasons, including lifestyle factors, your diet and the natural decline of ear structures that occur as you get older. A degree of hearing loss is normal for seniors, but it can vary on a scale of mild to severe. If it is more than mild, then it may begin to impact your life, including socialization, communication and health.

It is vital that as a senior, you schedule an appointment with your local audiologist for a hearing test. This will help you to better understand your personal experience with your hearing and obtain any support that can assist in improving your quality of life. Hearing tests can be conducted regularly, as well if you experience any changes in your health or hearing. They are an excellent way to gain the right kind of support with your current experience, as well as maintain your hearing health and take preventative action.

Make Sure You Attend Your Appointment on Time

A hearing test will comprise a range of activities, so you must attend your appointment promptly. This will ensure your audiologist can get through everything they need to assess your hearing and talk you through everything you need to know. This will mean that you feel at ease and don’t feel rushed or pressured and ensure the appointment goes smoothly for you.

Your Test Will Comprise a Variety of Activities and Questions

You should know that your hearing test appointment involves a discussion about your experience with hearing, as well as your medical history. It will also involve an activity whereby you are asked to wear headphones and listen to sounds that are played. These will be at different pitches and volumes in your left ear and your right. You may also be played speeches and asked to repeat what you hear. All of this information is gathered so that the audiologist can better tailor your support.

Make sure you leave enough time to get through all the discussions and activities and can wear headphones on the day. Your audiologist may also conduct a physical examination of your ear. Knowing this information will help you better prepare.

Come Prepared with Personal Information

A part of a hearing test will involve a discussion about your experience and your medical history. You must come prepared with this information. Take some time before your appointment to write down anything that you think is relevant, any tools that you currently use and gather any documents you wish to bring.

Keep an Open Mind

You must enter the appointment with an open mind. Everyone experiences change at points in their life. As a senior, there can be more change that is out of your control. Audiologists are here to help assess your hearing health and support you. Keep an open mind and be curious and ask questions. A hearing test will involve a variety of components. Make sure you consider all of the above before your appointment so you can be prepared.