Age-Related Hearing Loss: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Hearing Loss in Older Adults

Hearing loss due to aging is called presbycusis. Presbycusis is the gradual loss of hearing in one or both ears due to age. Studies show that 1 in 3 adults over the age of 65 have hearing loss. Age-related hearing loss occurs because the hair cells in the inner ear - responsible for hearing - begin to naturally deteriorate. This process typically happens over the course of a few years, making it difficult to notice right away.

Signs of Hearing Loss

While every case of hearing loss is unique as the individual, there are common signs to watch out for.

• It seems like the people in your life mumble
• You frequently ask others to repeat themselves
• You can't notice the soft sounds around you anymore (birds outside or hum of the refrigerator)
• Women and children's voices are harder to hear
• It's difficult to understand conversation when there is background noise
• You feel unusually tired after conversations
• People complain you turn the TV or radio up too loud

Effects of Age-Related Hearing Loss

If left untreated, hearing loss can affect other parts of your life and mental health. When you can't hear well due to hearing loss, your brain has to work harder to hear the little it can hear. Over time, this can lead to feelings of fatigue, forgetfulness, social isolation, and even dementia.

To practice good mental health, it's important to take care of your hearing!

How Your Ears Can Age Gracefully

It is recommended that individuals 65 and older have their hearing examined on an annual basis. Just as you visit the doctor once a year for a physical, or the dentist twice a year for a cleaning, you should also have your hearing checked regularly. If you do have hearing loss, hearing aids are a great management option.

Labyrinth Audiology offers a wide range of services to help the people of Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and the surrounding areas with their hearing health. Take care of your hearing by scheduling an appointment today!