If it’s been a while since your last hearing test, or if you’ve never had one done at all, let’s make 2026 your year for prioritizing your hearing health. Even if you don’t believe you have any symptoms of hearing loss, it’s a good idea to be proactive with your hearing, since it’s connected to so many different facets of your life.
Why Hearing Tests Matter
Your hearing isn’t just your ability to hear the birds singing (which is, of course, important). Hearing is connected to our ability to make meaningful social connections, make sense of our surroundings, ensure our own safety and engage mindfully with the world around us. Hearing health has also been linked to mental health, cognitive ability, physical health and work performance. Neglecting your hearing health can have a negative impact on your whole body and self.
Anyone Can Have Hearing Loss
If you believe that hearing loss is only an issue for the aging population, think again. Hearing loss can affect anyone at any age; in fact, prevalence rates of hearing loss among young adults have been steadily increasing. Our modern world is full of sounds: traffic, alarms, music and even household appliances can be dangerously loud. Moreover, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 25% of all workers in America are exposed to hazardous noise levels at work, and over half of them don’t wear hearing protection.
What Are the Signs that I Need to Get My Hearing Checked?
The following are some common signs that you’re in the beginning stages of hearing loss. Consider scheduling a hearing examination if you notice any of them:
- Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
- Missing or mishearing words in a conversation
- Turning up the volume on the TV—to the point that family members complain
- Feeling tired after social interactions
- Sounds appear muffled
- A ringing or buzzing sound in the ear (tinnitus)
What If I Don’t Have Any Symptoms of Hearing Loss?
If nothing in the list above resonates with you, that doesn’t mean you should skip a hearing test. Even if you don’t have symptoms, a hearing test lays the groundwork for hearing healthcare that you may need down the line. It establishes a baseline understanding of your hearing abilities that you can reference for changes.
It’s recommended that, starting at age 50, you get your hearing tested every five years, and then every one to three years starting at age 65. If you work in a workplace with excess noise, you should also come in, even if you don’t have symptoms.
How to Schedule a Hearing Test
Our expert audiologists at Premier Medical Group are ready to perform a hearing test with you and begin the next steps. Call us today to schedule an appointment for a hearing test.