Of Sound Health
Think about the sounds that shape your day. A phone ringing, your grandchild’s laughter or birds chirping just outside the window. Hearing helps us connect to the people and moments that matter most. Changes in hearing are common as we age. It often happens so slowly that it’s easy to miss. Age-related hearing loss affects nearly one in three adults over 65, according to the National Institute on Aging. Because it develops slowly, many people adjust without realizing how much has changed. Turning up the TV, asking others to repeat themselves or avoiding noisy restaurants may start to feel normal. But these changes can actually be early signs of hearing loss.
FAST FACT
For many, hearing loss remains untreated for 7-10 years.
SOURCE: HEARING LOSS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA
When hearing loss happens quietly
Hearing loss is usually painless and easy to miss. There is typically no clear moment when it begins. Instead, it shows up in small ways. You might miss a few words in conversation, have trouble in noisy places or rely on visual cues. Over time, untreated hearing loss can affect more than communication. Research from Johns Hopkins Medicine and the World Health Organization suggests it may be linked to a higher risk of falls and cognitive decline in older adults. When the brain works harder to process sound, it has less energy for memory and thinking.
Hearing, safety and daily life
Hearing plays a key role in helping people stay safe and alert. Being able to hear traffic, alarms, doorbells and other important alerts helps you stay aware of your surroundings and respond quickly. Hearing loss can also affect your social life. When conversations become harder to follow, some people may begin to step back from socializing. This shift can affect confidence, mood and quality of life. According to the AARP, hearing loss can make social events more challenging and may lead to feelings of isolation.
Small steps that make a difference
The good news is that hearing loss can often be managed, especially if caught early. A few simple steps can help protect your hearing and support long-term health:
• Get regular hearing checks, especially if you notice changes.
• Protect your ears from loud noises when possible.
• Address earwax buildup, which can affect hearing.
• Use hearing devices when recommended by a professional. If you’re unsure whether a hearing evaluation is right for you, your primary care provider can help guide next steps. Your health plan includes benefits that may support regular evaluations, hearing devices or follow-up care. If you have questions about what’s available to you, you can call the number on the back of your member ID card.
Stay connected to what matters
Research from the National Institute on Aging shows that early identification and treatment of hearing loss makes a difference. It can improve communication, support brain health and help people remain active longer. If you’ve noticed changes in your hearing, take action today. It may help you continue enjoying conversations, activities and everyday moments for years to come.
DID YOU KNOW?
Hearing loss is one of the most common chronic conditions affecting adults age 65 and older.
SOURCE: CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION
