How Often Should Adults Over 60 Have a Hearing Test?
As we get older, regular health checkups become part of maintaining our overall well-being. Many adults know they should have routine eye exams, dental checkups, and physicals—but hearing health is often overlooked.
The reality is that hearing changes gradually for many people, making it difficult to notice the decline. That's why regular hearing assessments are an important part of healthy aging.
If you're over 60, you may be wondering: How often should I have my hearing tested?
Why Hearing Tests Become More Important After Age 60
Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is one of the most common chronic health conditions affecting older adults.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 25% of adults over the age of 60 experience disabling hearing loss, and the prevalence continues to increase with age.
Because hearing loss often develops slowly over many years, many people don't realize how much they've been missing until family members point it out or a hearing test reveals the changes.
How Often Should Adults Over 60 Have a Hearing Test?
For most adults over 60, a comprehensive hearing assessment every one to two years is recommended, even if you don't think you've noticed a change in your hearing.
More frequent testing may be appropriate if you:
Already have hearing loss
Wear hearing aids
Have tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears)
Have a family history of hearing loss
Have diabetes or cardiovascular disease
Have had significant noise exposure through work or hobbies
Take medications that may affect hearing
Have noticed changes in your hearing since your last assessment
Your audiologist can recommend a testing schedule based on your hearing health and medical history.
Why Hearing Loss Often Goes Unnoticed
Unlike sudden hearing loss, age-related hearing loss develops gradually.
Many people adapt without realizing it. They may:
Turn up the television volume
Ask others to repeat themselves more often
Avoid noisy restaurants
Think everyone is mumbling
Have difficulty hearing grandchildren or higher-pitched voices
Feel tired after conversations
Miss parts of group discussions
Because these changes happen slowly, they can easily become "the new normal."
What Happens During a Hearing Test?
Many people delay booking a hearing assessment because they aren't sure what to expect.
A comprehensive hearing evaluation at Empathy Hearing Clinic typically includes:
A discussion about your hearing concerns and medical history
Examination of your ears
Hearing testing using headphones in a sound-treated booth
Speech understanding testing
Middle ear testing when appropriate
A detailed explanation of your results
Personalized recommendations based on your hearing needs
Most appointments take about an hour, are completely painless, and provide valuable information about your hearing health.
Why Early Detection Matters
Untreated hearing loss affects much more than your ability to hear.
Research has linked untreated hearing loss with:
Increased listening fatigue
Social isolation
Depression
Increased risk of falls
Reduced quality of life
Faster cognitive decline
Identifying hearing changes early gives you more options to protect your communication, independence, and overall well-being.
Do I Need Hearing Aids If I Have Hearing Loss?
Not necessarily.
Every hearing assessment is different, and recommendations depend on the type and degree of hearing loss, your communication needs, and your lifestyle.
Some people simply benefit from monitoring their hearing over time, while others may benefit from hearing aids or communication strategies.
Your audiologist will explain your results and discuss the options that are right for you.
Signs It's Time to Book a Hearing Test
Even if you had your hearing tested a few years ago, it's a good idea to schedule another assessment if you:
Frequently ask people to repeat themselves
Think others are mumbling
Have difficulty hearing in noisy environments
Turn up the television louder than family members prefer
Avoid conversations in groups
Experience ringing or buzzing in your ears
Notice family members commenting on your hearing
Haven't had a hearing test in the last two years
Why Choose Empathy Hearing Clinic?
At Empathy Hearing Clinic in Burlington, we believe hearing care should be personalized, thorough, and compassionate.
As an audiologist who personally lives with hearing loss and wears hearing aids, I understand the challenges that hearing changes can bring. Whether you're noticing the first signs of hearing loss or simply want to establish a baseline, we're here to help you understand your hearing and make informed decisions about your care.
Our comprehensive hearing assessments are designed to give you clear answers and practical recommendations tailored to your needs.
Book Your Hearing Test in Burlington
If you're over 60 and haven't had your hearing checked in the past one to two years, now is an excellent time to schedule a comprehensive hearing assessment.
Early detection can help you stay connected with family, maintain your independence, and continue enjoying the conversations that matter most.
Contact Empathy Hearing Clinic today to book your hearing test in Burlington.