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Hearing Loss Awareness Month
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October 2, 2024Hearing loss can affect individuals of any age. 1 out of 3 adults over 65 and nearly half of those 75 and older experience age-related hearing loss. Hearing loss can impact the quality of life in many ways such as difficulty communicating with others, isolation, depression, cognitive impairment, and has been linked to an increased risk of falls. Children may struggle in school. Undetected hearing loss in children can affect speech, language, and social skills.
A hearing screening is a quick test of how well you hear different sounds and will provide information as to whether a full hearing evaluation is needed. Routine hearing screenings may increase the identification, diagnosis, and treatment of hearing loss in adults.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends yearly hearing screenings for children aged 4 through 6, followed by additional screening at ages 8 and 10. Adolescents and teens should receive at least 3 hearing screenings to detect any changes that might affect language, academics, and social well-being.
Regardless of age, if you have concerns about hearing loss, the following is a list of available resources.
NC Central University Speech and Hearing Clinic offers free hearing screenings for individuals of all ages.
919-530-7473
The American Speech-Language Hearing Association has self-screening tools available.