As we age, our senses – especially vision and hearing – can begin to decline. While that’s a normal part of life, staying on top of regular check-ups can make a huge difference in maintaining independence, preventing accidents, and improving overall wellbeing.
Let’s explore why vision and hearing are so important, particularly for older adults.
Did you know that vision impairment can dramatically increase the risk of falls? For older adults, falls are actually the leading cause of injury. The good news is that regular eye exams can catch issues early, such as needing a new prescription or spotting signs of eye conditions, so you can reduce your risk and stay safe on your feet.
Clear vision helps us judge distances, navigate steps, and stay balanced. Conditions like cataracts or glaucoma can impact these abilities, making everyday tasks trickier and potentially dangerous. Staying on top of your eye health supports smoother, safer movement.
Sometimes, it’s the small things that make the biggest difference. Ensuring your glasses are up to date, using brighter lighting at home, removing trip hazards such as throw rugs, and installing grab bars in key places (like the bathroom) can all help prevent accidents.
Your inner ear does more than help you hear — it also plays a crucial role in balance. If hearing loss goes unaddressed, it can sometimes be linked to balance issues, making falls more likely. Keeping your hearing in check helps keep you steady.
Being able to hear clearly means you’re more aware of your surroundings. Whether it’s hearing someone call your name or being alerted to a hazard, good hearing keeps you safe and connected to the world around you.
Hearing well isn’t just about safety; it’s about quality of life. Social interaction is vital for mental health. If hearing loss leads to isolation, it can result in less movement, decreased strength, and even an increased risk of depression. Staying socially active keeps both body and mind engaged.
Aim for a dilated eye exam at least once a year. It’s a simple appointment that can catch changes in your vision early, help prevent serious conditions, and ensure your glasses or contact lenses are doing their job.
If you’ve noticed any signs of hearing loss — or even if you haven’t — regular hearing tests are key. Catching hearing changes early means you can explore hearing aids or other options that help maintain your balance, safety, and connection to others.
“My mum often denies that there is anything wrong with her hearing when the volume is up on full. There is an increasing body of evidence linking hearing loss to dementia which can be reduced with a hearing aid. Mum says she doesn’t want another thing to worry about, but eventually she understood that this is important. So please, for our families, get your hearing checked. We want you to feel mentally strong and supported. We want you to have a great quality of life.”
– Helen, iCareiMove Founder
Looking after your vision and hearing is more than a health checklist — it’s about preserving the freedom to move confidently, connect deeply, and live life to the fullest.