St. Louis Audiologist Recommends Hearing Tests for Everyone Over 60

As we age, our ability to hear naturally declines, which can impact our quality of life and ability to communicate effectively with loved ones. St. Louis Audiologist, John Scarlas M.S., CCC-A, of Greentree Hearing and Audiology, recommends hearing tests for everyone over the age of 60 to ensure early detection and intervention of hearing loss.

Why Regular Hearing Tests Are Important

Regular hearing tests for individuals over 60 are crucial in detecting and addressing age-related hearing loss as early as possible. Early intervention can lead to improved communication with loved ones, a better quality of life, and reduced frustration. Hearing loss can manifest in various ways, depending on the severity and type of hearing loss. Here are 10 common symptoms of hearing loss:

1. Difficulty understanding speech - Struggling to understand people, especially in noisy environments or when multiple people are speaking simultaneously, is a common sign of hearing loss.
2. Turning up the volume - If you find yourself frequently increasing the volume on the TV, radio, or other audio devices, it could indicate a decline in hearing ability.
3. Muffled sounds - Do you ever feel like people mumble nowadays? Hearing loss can cause sounds to seem muffled or distant, making it difficult to discern specific words or sounds, making it sound like everyone is mumbling.
4. Asking others to repeat themselves: If you constantly find yourself asking people to repeat what they've said or speak more slowly, it may signal hearing loss.
5. Tinnitus - Experiencing ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds in one or both ears when no external sound is present could be a sign of hearing loss or another underlying issue.
6. Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds - Struggling to hear high-pitched sounds, such as doorbells, telephone rings, or birdsong, could indicate hearing loss.
7. Difficulty understanding speech on the phone - If you have trouble understanding conversations on the phone or frequently need to switch ears, it may suggest hearing loss.
8. Social isolation and withdrawal - People with hearing loss may withdraw from social situations due to the challenges of understanding speech and feeling embarrassed or isolated.
9. Misunderstanding conversations: Misinterpreting what people say or finding it difficult to follow group conversations could be a sign of hearing loss.
10. Fatigue: Constantly straining to hear and understand can lead to mental and physical fatigue or frustration.

In addition to hearing better, early intervention of hearing loss may help reduce the likelihood of depression and dementia.

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, it's important to consult with an Audiologist or hearing professional for a comprehensive hearing evaluation. Early intervention can improve communication, quality of life, and help prevent further hearing loss.

About John Scarlas

John Scarlas was born in Tampa, Florida, and raised in Beckley, West Virginia. He holds a Bachelor of Science from West Virginia University and a Master's degree in Audiology from Towson University. Since moving to St. Louis in 1997, John has dedicated his career to helping people communicate better with family and friends. As the owner of Greentree Hearing and Audiology, John is passionate about providing high-quality, personalized hearing care in a family environment.

Greentree Hearing and Audiology

With over 20 years of experience, the team of Audiologists at Greentree Hearing and Audiology offers advanced hearing care, including hearing aids, hearing tests, and more, in a convenient St. Louis clinic. Their focus on patient-first care and the creation of a calm, non-rushed environment ensures a memorable and successful experience for each patient.

What Sets Greentree Hearing and Audiology Apart

Greentree Hearing and Audiology is unique in its approach to hearing healthcare, with a team of licensed Audiologists who possess Masters or Doctorate-level degrees in Audiology, a compassionate and supportive care approach, and over 50 years of combined experience. The clinic offers high-quality hearing aids from leading brands, ensuring that patients have access to the latest technology and the best devices for their needs.

Patient Testimonials

I have been a customer of Greentree Audiology (GTA) for over 10 years. They have been excellent at meeting my general and specific needs. No hearing aid can return hearing to completely normal, and in my experience different people expect and accept differing levels of performance. I particularly want my hearing aids to interface well with my cell phone for sending and receiving calls, listening to podcasts and audiobooks, and to supporting a remote microphone. I have been pleased with GTA's ability to understand these needs and select the best brands to meet them. Following service has always been available and provided quickly and without question. I appreciate that GTA offers several brands, so I never felt I was held captive to any one brand. I have used both inexpensive and top of the line hearing aids from 3 other vendors. This experience suggests that more expensive hearing aids and providers generally do better, especially as my hearing loss deepens, to suppress undesirable feedback and improve reliability. Of the 4 vendors of which I have had direct experience can say that GTA provides the best overall products and services I have received.

-Jim S.

Couldn't be happier. Went in last Monday for a consultation and hearing test. Dr John took care of me. Took the time to ask questions about what my needs and expectations were, performed the hearing test and explained the different types of devices that were available. No high pressure sales, just information and answers. Go back in 2 weeks for my devices. Thank you.

- O.B.

If you or a loved one is over the age of 60 and concerned about hearing loss, please don't wait. Contact Greentree Hearing and Audiology today to schedule an appointment and begin your journey towards better hearing.