Is age a factor in the development of hearing loss? Hearing loss is a common gradually developing condition that affects all adults. Actually, over 50% of those 75 and older have a hard time hearing.
Presbycusis
Presbycusis is defined as age-related hearing loss or the gradual process of hearing loss as we age. Usually, there will be a variety of factors contributing to this condition.
As we grow older, our ears undergo changes. There are little hair cells in your ears that detect waves of sound and communicate the signals to the brain to be translated as sound.
When these tiny hair cells become damaged or destroyed, hearing loss is the consequence. Hearing loss that is the outcome of damage to these hairs is permanent as these hairs never restore.
The following are some causes of hearing loss:
- Using headphones when listening to loud music can increase the risk.
- The risk of hearing loss is increased by smoking.
- Exposure to loud noise frequently over long periods of time.
- Certain medical conditions like diabetes can result in hearing loss.
- Certain medications including chemotherapy drugs raise the risk.
- Heredity plays a factor in hearing loss.
Typical symptoms of age-related hearing loss
When you have a hard time hearing soft voices, kid’s voices, voices when there is a lot of background sound, and a general lack of clarity when somebody talks are all symptoms of Presbycusis.
Additionally, increasing the TV volume, asking others to repeat what they said, and ringing in your ears can also be signs of hearing loss.
Dealing with age-related hearing loss is essential
Quality of life will be negatively affected by neglected hearing loss. Anxiousness, depression, sadness, social isolation, compromised relationships, and an increased risk of developing dementia are all ways that neglected hearing loss can have a negative impact on your quality of life.
These problems can, to a great extent, be avoided by getting your hearing loss treated with strategies such as hearing aids, telephone amplifiers, lip reading, a cochlear implant, or if your hearing loss is extreme, sign language.
No one should suffer with age-related hearing loss. You can still have a full and enjoyable life.
Consult us today to schedule your hearing test and to go over 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