7 signs your hearing health may be declining (and why you shouldn’t ignore them)

There are silences that are not normal. The ones where you don’t hear what everyone else hears. The ones where you guess, instead of understanding. The ones where your world becomes a little more blurry — without you even realizing it.

When we talk about hearing health, we often think of old age. However, hearing loss doesn’t just affect the elderly. It can occur at any age, and its effects are often underestimated.

According to the World Health Organization, over a billion young adults worldwide are currently at risk of hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to noise. And yet, few people think about getting their hearing checked before it’s too late.

So, how can you know if your hearing health is optimal? Here are 7 signs that deserve your full attention.

1. You have trouble following conversations (especially in groups)

In a busy restaurant, at a family dinner, or in a crowded waiting room, do you find yourself reading lips or nodding along without really understanding what’s being said? It might not just be background noise — it could be difficulty filtering sounds.

2. People sound like they’re mumbling

You hear… but you don’t always understand. It’s as if some words slip through the cracks. That feeling that people don’t enunciate anymore is a classic sign of diminished perception of high-pitched sounds — often one of the first symptoms of hearing loss.

3. You often ask people to repeat themselves

“Sorry?” “What did you say?” “Huh?”
Are these phrases becoming more frequent than you’d like? It’s easy to get used to asking people to repeat themselves — until the moment you realize you’re no longer keeping up. If it happens regularly, it may be time to consult a professional.

4. You turn up the TV volume (and others complain)

You think the sound is just fine… but others find it way too loud. This is often one of the first signs of progressive hearing loss, especially in people who live alone and don’t have anyone to point it out.

5. You hear buzzing, ringing, or phantom sounds

These sounds, known as tinnitus, can be temporary or chronic. They’re often linked to overexposure to noise (headphones, loud workplaces, concerts, etc.) but may also signal hearing damage. If you hear these sounds frequently, it’s important to get your hearing evaluated.

👉 What is tinnitus? – Centres Masliah

6. You avoid social situations

Without realizing it, you start ignoring calls, limiting your outings, or withdrawing in group settings. This gradual retreat is often a defense mechanism: when hearing becomes difficult, socializing turns tiring, frustrating, even anxiety-inducing. It can lead to isolation — a major risk factor for mental and cognitive health.

7. You have been (or still are) regularly exposed to noise

• You work in a noisy environment (construction site, factory, school, restaurant)
• You often listen to music with headphones
• You’ve attended many concerts or festivals
• You play an amplified instrument
• You frequently use power tools or noisy machinery

Even if you’re young, your ears aren’t invincible. They can suffer invisible — yet irreversible — damage.

👉 What are the symptoms of a ruptured eardrum? – Centres Masliah

Ignoring the signs only lets the problem grow

Hearing loss isn’t a life sentence. The earlier it’s detected, the easier it is to treat, manage, or adapt to. And contrary to popular belief, wearing a hearing aid doesn’t mean “getting old”… it means staying connected to the world.

A hearing test is quick, painless, and simple — and it helps you get clarity. It’s never too early — or too late — to check in on your hearing.

Where can you get your hearing tested?

Centres Masliah is one of Quebec’s largest networks specializing in hearing health. With locations across the province, they offer:

• Free professional hearing screenings year-round
• Hearing devices tailored to your needs
• Personalized follow-ups with attentive specialists
• Innovative solutions to improve your quality of life

👉 Book a free hearing screening – Centres Masliah

Because hearing means living better

Hearing health affects more than just your ability to hear. It impacts memory, relationships, autonomy, balance… even your sense of self.

If you recognize one or more of these signs in yourself or a loved one, don’t wait. Take action now.

Because the real silence is the one you didn’t choose.

Need a little help?

If your hearing health is limiting your daily life, or if you want to get tested but have trouble getting around, know that support services are available. Professionals can help you with appointments, assist with paperwork, or even accompany you to your clinic visits.