Hearing loss often develops gradually and can begin earlier than many people realize. Age-related hearing changes may start as early as in your 40s, though most individuals do not notice a functional impact until their 50s or 60s. Subtle changes, however, can be measured well before symptoms become noticeable.

For the general population, establishing a true baseline hearing evaluation around age 25 is recommended, before age, noise exposure, and other health factors accumulate. Individuals at higher risk, including those with a history of excessive noise exposure, a family history of hearing loss, certain medical conditions, or exposure to ototoxic medications, may benefit from earlier testing