SENIORS: Don’t skip this VITAL ‘checkup’
I’ll admit it.
Going to the doctor – even for routine checkups – can be tedious.
But it doesn’t mean you should put those visits on the back burner. Because as time-consuming or redundant as they can feel, they’re one of the best ways to identify potential health issues.
Yet recently, many seniors HAVEN’T been making these checkups a priority.
In fact, it’s estimated that nearly 41% of adults have flat out AVOIDED routine medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic!
And recent findings validate that millions of older Americans continue to put off one of the MOST important ‘checkups’ for your overall well-being (nope, it’s not your annual physical!).
But today I’m here to tell you why you shouldn’t skip this… and the big implications it could have for your long-term health.
Findings from the National Poll on Healthy Aging found the majority of Americans over 50 have NOT been checked for HEARING LOSS in the past two years.
And, a whopping 80% report having primary care physicians who have not questioned or checked their hearing!
Now you might think this isn’t a big deal — it’s just hearing after all. But the reality is that your hearing can have a HUGE impact on your health.
Hearing loss not only affects your ability to interact with family, friends, and loved ones… it can also lead to an increased risk of falls, and even dementia!
If you haven’t had your hearing checked in a while, reach out to your doctor about conducting a simple hearing test. In-person ear exams can be done safely.
Another reason to get your hearing tested is that recently over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids have been authorized to sell.
It’s enticing, but there are drawbacks to running to get an OTC hearing aid… but an actual hearing test done by an actual doctor can determine if you need a hearing aid.
To not forgetting your hearing,
Sarah Reagan
Sources:
Study Finds. “Older adults aren’t getting their hearing checked enough — especially women.” https://studyfinds.org/hearing-loss-tests-older-adults/
