Is age a factor in the progression of hearing loss? Hearing loss is a common slowly progressing condition that affects all adults. Half of people over the age of 75 have difficulty with their hearing, as a matter of fact.
Presbycusis
Presbycusis is defined as age-related hearing loss or the slow process of hearing loss as we get older. Usually, there will be a combination of elements contributing to this condition.
As we age, our ears go through changes. There are little hair cells in your ears that pick up waves of sound and communicate the signals to the brain to be interpreted as sound.
The onset of hearing loss occurs when the hair cells are damaged or die. These hair cells do not restore or grow back, so any hearing loss is permanent.
Some of the causes of hearing loss include the following:
- Loud noises like going to concerts frequently or working in a setting with consistent loud noise.
- Using headphones when listening to loud music can increase the risk.
- Smoking increases the risk of hearing loss.
- Heredity plays a role in hearing loss.
- Hearing loss can be the outcome of numerous medical conditions, including diabetes.
- Hearing loss risk is increased by certain medications including chemotherapy drugs.
Common symptoms of age-related hearing loss
When you have trouble making out soft voices, kid’s voices, voices when there is a lot of background noise, and an overall lack of clarity when somebody speaks are all symptoms of Presbycusis.
In addition, increasing the TV volume, asking people to repeat what they said, and ringing in your ears can also be indications of hearing loss.
Treating age-related hearing loss is essential
Untreated hearing loss decreases quality of life. Neglected hearing loss is connected to depression, sadness, anxiety, mental decline, diminishing social relationships, and the risk of dementia.
Rather than dealing with these issues, think about possible treatments, including hearing aids, sign language for people with severe hearing loss, telephone amplifiers, lip reading, or a cochlear implant.
Struggling with age-related hearing loss isn’t something that anybody should have to do. There are ways to enjoy your life again.
Consult with us today to schedule your hearing test and to talk about the best treatments for your hearing loss or for someone you love.
References
Older Adults — Hearing Health Foundation
Hearing Loss: A Common Problem for Older Adults | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov)
Seniors and Hearing Loss – American Academy of Audiology
