Dr. Cameron RecommendsTesting By Age 40

Dr. Cameron RecommendsTesting By Age 40

Hearing loss, like any other health related issue, should not be ignored. Many people simply don’t remember to include a hearing evaluation as part of their regular health check-ups. Research has shown that many of the negative effects of hearing loss, including depression, anxiety and withdrawal from many social gatherings, can significantly affect individuals, families, care workers and often co-workers. Hearing loss is experienced by 1 in 10 Canadians of all ages and is the 3rd most common health concern after heart disease and diabetes.

Audiologist, Dr. Patricia Cameron, recommends hearing should be tested starting at age 40. She adds “I see too many people for their very first hearing test at age 65 or older, and often their hearing loss has been present for years.”  What other health concerns would we ignore for that long? So why do we ignore hearing loss?

If there are concerns or signs that hearing loss is present, a sudden hearing loss is experienced, or you have ringing in your ears (tinnitus) a hearing test by your audiologist is warranted. By age 40 a hearing test should be part of our health and wellness check-ups.

As Dr. Cameron would say, “Have your hearing tested, establish a base line for future tests and results and wear hearing protection when in loud environments.” Hearing does worsen with age, so early identification and appropriate treatment is the best way to be proactive about your hearing health.

So, if you’re over 40 – listen up – and book a hearing test today.

Metro Sept 2011