On this page
Short answer When sense changes warrant a visit Common questions Related questions Sources**See a doctor for new or worsening sensory changes, and seek urgent care for sudden hearing or vision changes.**
Your senses can become less sharp with age, but a change should not automatically be attributed to aging. Schedule a visit if you struggle with conversations, reading, eating, or feeling heat and cold. Your clinician can check for treatable causes, including earwax buildup or medication effects. Keep up with eye exams, protect your hearing from loud noise, and check your skin for injuries if sensation is reduced.
When sense changes warrant a visit
Common questions
When should you see a doctor for Aging changes in the senses?
See a doctor if your hearing, vision, smell, taste, or touch changes, especially when it affects daily activities or safety. Arrange a visit for persistent ringing in your ears, reduced appetite from taste changes, numbness, or balance problems. Seek medical care today for sudden hearing loss, even in one ear, or new flashes or floaters in your vision. Go to an emergency department immediately if you suddenly cannot see or have severe eye pain. Bring your medication list and note when symptoms started; an exam can identify causes that need treatment.