Do you believe that hearing loss is just an inevitable part of aging? It’s easy to see why you may, when the NIDCD reports that approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has a hearing loss. This increases to nearly half of those 75+ having difficulty hearing.
Today, we’re looking at Presbycusis (age related hearing loss). We’ll cover the primary causes, as well as ways that you can prevent it. You do not have to just accept hearing loss as you age.
What is Presbycusis?
Age related hearing loss usually happens gradually, and commonly affects both ears evenly. This means that by the time you notice your hearing loss, it may be quite severe.
This type of hearing loss is usually caused by changes to the nerves or of the inner or middle ear. Some medications and age related conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure can also be a factor.
It’s very common for there to be an element of noise induced hearing loss too. It can be tricky to tell the two types of hearing loss apart.
A noticeable trait of presbycusis is missing some letter sounds and frequencies when someone speaks. It’s very tiring to try and interpret conversations. Understandably, it can lead to frustration, embarrassment or social isolation to avoid the issue.
Other symptoms of presbycusis may include:
- Difficulty concentrating when there is background noise
- Feeling like others are mumbling
- Struggling to understand women or children’s voices
- Finding group conversations hard to follow
- Dislike of phone conversations
- Often needing to ask others to repeat themselves
- People often mention how loud your music or television is set
How Can You Prevent Age Related Hearing Loss?
Follow these steps to help reduce the risks of age related hearing loss:
- Try to increase your intake of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants by eating more fruits and vegetables.
- Protect your hearing in noisy environments and try to avoid excess noise. Learn more about how noise can impact your health here.
- Find a form of exercise that you enjoy and do it regularly. This improves blood flow to the ears helping to keep vital cells healthy and functioning.
- Quit or reduce how much you smoke as this can be linked to hearing loss.
- Be sure to have regular hearing checks so that any blockages can be dealt with and any changes in hearing can be treated asap.
- If you are given hearing aids, use them! (Speak to us about any problems you have adjusting to them.)
For more tips, read our 7 activities that can improve your hearing. If you are concerned about your hearing, please call us to schedule a hearing assessment at your convenience. You can rest assured that our caring professionals will talk you through every step of the painless process.
Whatever your age, you do not have to suffer in silence with a hearing loss. Contact us at 702-997-2964 or click here to request an appointment online.