Almost 38 million Americans over 18 have some trouble hearing. However, according to the National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, hearing loss is more prevalent among the elderly. One in three seniors between 65 and 74 and nearly half of those over 75 suffer from hearing loss.
Hearing loss can adversely impact seniors' lives and pose a potential safety risk if they cannot hear important sounds such as alarms and car horns. Connecting with others also becomes challenging. Difficulty understanding conversations could lead to social isolation and even contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.
Recognizing hearing loss symptoms and knowing when to consult a physician can help. Early detection and treatment can prevent further hearing loss and other associated health issues, allowing you to maintain a good quality of life. Read on to learn more.
Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, is a gradual loss of hearing that affects both ears. Other common characteristics of presbycusis are:
The Cleveland Clinic describes presbycusis as a type of sensorineural hearing loss that occurs when there is damage to the inner ear. Changes in the inner ear are the most common cause of age-related hearing loss. However, it can also occur when there are changes to the middle ear or brain nerve pathways.
Other common causes of presbycusis include:
If there is reduced blood flow to the inner ear it can accelerate the hearing loss. However, presbycusis is usually gradual, and there will be subtle indicators and symptoms. Identifying them can help with early detection of hearing loss.
Senior hearing health often declines due to changes that occur over time in the inner ear as a person ages. The gradual damage slowly affects how effectively sound signals are sent to the brain. Common hearing loss symptoms include:
Other subtle hearing impairment indicators when a senior has presbycusis could be:
Symptoms may vary from person to person depending on the severity of the hearing loss.
Whether subtle or more pronounced, hearing loss can adversely affect seniors' physical activities. Unfortunately, ongoing symptoms can have more than physical effects. There may also be a psychological and social impact.
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, depression and social isolation can be the hidden risks of hearing loss. The communication barriers due to hearing loss increase the risk of both.
The institution's studies showed that hearing loss contributed to faster brain deterioration. It may also discourage some seniors from conversing and socializing. Both factors can contribute to the onset of dementia.
The increased risk of dementia due to hearing loss isn't only a result of faster brain atrophy. It can also occur because the brain needs to work harder to interpret sounds, which can strain other cognitive systems.
Untreated hearing loss can lead to difficulties with:
All can exacerbate cognitive decline.
Are you experiencing any or all of the symptoms above? Are they persistent? Or is your ability to hear worsening?
If you answered yes to any of these, you should seek help, particularly if symptoms are affecting your ability to do daily activities. When this occurs, it usually indicates the need for a hearing evaluation from a healthcare professional.
You can discuss your concerns with your primary care physician. After consultation, they will refer you to a specialist if needed.
The referral will involve an audiology consultation with an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor. Both can conduct a comprehensive hearing test and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Early detection and treatment can help you effectively manage potential health issues associated with hearing loss. It can prevent further decline, allowing you to maintain your independence and improve your quality of life. Addressing hearing loss symptoms before they become more severe promotes overall well-being and minimizes the need for more intensive care later.
Getting help early can improve:
It also decreases the risk of dementia, related to hearing loss.
Access to hearing loss treatment options can improve hearing, resulting in a better quality of life. Your healthcare professional's approach will depend on your individual needs and the severity of your hearing loss. Options may include:
In more severe cases a physician may opt for cochlear implants along with speech-reading training while managing earwax buildup. Lifestyle changes are also advisable. Consider managing underlying medical conditions, reducing noise exposure, and practicing good communication strategies, depending on the cause of the hearing loss.
Hearing loss symptoms in seniors can vary, depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Early detection and intervention is important regardless of the symptoms you experience. Take proactive steps regarding your hearing health by consulting with a healthcare professional.
Sabine Place Assisted Living facilitates residents' scheduled doctor's appointments. This is one of many services and amenities we provide, reflecting our dedication to residents' overall well-being. Our trained staff can also support you throughout your hearing loss treatment.
Schedule a tour to learn more.