When and how often you should get your hearing checked depends on several factors including symptoms, age, occupation and whether or not you already have hearing loss. 

Our infographic below can offer a good starting off point:

What age do you need a a hearing test?

Generally, people 60 and older should have a baseline hearing test, and get rechecked every few years. (We say "generally" because medical organizations disagree on exactly when an older adult with no symptoms should have their first hearing test, and how often they should get rechecked.)

Age is one of the leading causes of hearing difficulties. In fact, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders states that nearly one-third of people between the ages of 65-74 has hearing loss.

Testing for noise-induced hearing loss 

Even if you're younger than 60, if you're regularly exposed to sounds louder than about 85 decibels, it's a good idea to get a hearing screening every few years. 

People most at risk of noise-induced hearing loss are often those who work in loud environments, such as construction, manufacturing, music industries, or the military.

If you're experiencing symptoms of hearing loss

Regardless of age or occupation, if you feel like your hearing isn't normal, always get it checked out.

It may be a temporary issue, like a cold or earwax buildup that is causing problems. However, it is also possible for middle-aged or younger adults to develop hearing issues, regardless of noise-exposure due to genetics, certain medical conditions, medications or other factors. 

Schedule an appointment if you experience any symptoms of hearing loss, including:

• Difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
• Frequently asking others to repeat themselves
• Ringing or buzzing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Turning up the volume on the TV or radio
• Feeling like others are mumbling or speaking too softly
• Trouble hearing on the phone or in group conversations

Note that if you develop sudden hearing loss in one ear, it is a medical emergency. Seek help right away.

Get regular checkups if already diagnosed

If you already know you have hearing loss—confirmed through past testing—you should be retested from time to time, as agreed upon between you and your hearing care provider. You should always pay closer attention your hearing if you know you have a loss, and get it checked right away if you notice a change. 

Why? Hearing loss is dynamic, meaning it changes over time. However, sometimes the changes can be so subtle you may not notice. (Yet your loved ones probably do!) For most people hearing loss is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time.

Hearing aids need to be checked, too

If you wear hearing aids, keep in mind that you'll eventually need them adjusted. You may even need a new pair, particularly if your hearing loss has progressed from moderate to severe, or your hearing aids are outdated and not working well anymore.

In general, the lifespan of a hearing aid is three to seven years. Since hearing aid technology is always improving, upgrading to a newer model can significantly improve your hearing experience.

If you have cochlear implants or a bone-anchored hearing system, the timeline might be different. Check with your doctor to find out how often you should get your hearing tested and have your device checked or reprogrammed.

Is a hearing test the same as a hearing screening?

Hearing tests are done when you or your healthcare provider suspect hearing loss due to symptoms. During the test, you'll sit in a soundproof booth, and your hearing levels will be measured and plotted on an audiogram. This is often called a "comprehensive hearing exam."

Screening, on the other hand, is done when there are no symptoms of hearing loss. It's usually quicker and simpler. It can be done by a professional, or it can be done on your own by doing things like filling out a questionnaire, using an app, or taking our online hearing test. 

If you are exposed to high noise levels on the job, you are often required to participate in a screening program to check your hearing ability.

Why is it important to treat hearing loss early?

Early intervention and treatment are important because untreated hearing loss negatively impacts nearly every facet of your life, including your brain health.

Research has shown that untreated hearing loss, even in its early stages, is linked to cognitive decline, memory issues, and an increased risk of dementia.

It can also affect your emotional well-being, leading to feelings of isolation, frustration, and depression, as communication becomes more difficult.

The good news is that addressing hearing loss with hearing aid can have substantial health benefits. This is because hearing aids don’t just improve your ability to hear, they also help protect your brain by keeping it engaged.

Using hearing aids can improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of mental decline, and enhance overall quality of life by restoring communication and social interaction.

Find a hearing provider near you

The earlier you take action, the better the outcomes, so it’s important to test for hearing loss at the first sign and encourage your loved ones to do the same. If you're not sure where to start, check out our directory for hearing care providers near you.

Taking care of your hearing now can make a big difference in your quality of life down the road.