One of the most common changes that occurs as individuals age is hearing loss. The term for this condition is age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis. As we grow older, our ability to hear diminishes over time, and presbycusis often begins as early as our thirties or forties. The ability to hear high-frequency sounds may decline, and understanding speech becomes progressively difficult.
Presbycusis affects individuals in multiple ways. It can potentially cause safety concerns, such as failing to hear smoke alarms, car horns, or other crucial sounds in dangerous situations. It can also lead to social isolation, depression, and other challenges, including tinnitus and presbystasis. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of age-related hearing loss is essential, and they include:
- Difficulty understanding words, speech, and other sounds, especially in noisy environments.
- Withdrawal from social activities and conversations.
- Increasing the volume of the television or radio without realizing it.
- Frequently asking others to repeat what was said or to speak more slowly and clearly.
- Hypersensitivity to certain sounds.
Since hearing loss occurs gradually, it’s crucial to identify these signs early. If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing difficulties, it is important to consult a doctor, particularly if you work in a noisy environment, engage in loud activities, have a family history of hearing loss, or take medication that could damage the inner ear.
Although many adults experience presbycusis to some degree, it can be prevented or mitigated. To avoid worsening age-related hearing loss, consider these preventive measures:
- Protect your ears from long exposure to loud noises by wearing earplugs or earmuffs, especially during noisy activities.
- Get regular checkups that include basic hearing evaluations, and seek help from a hearing specialist if necessary.
- Avoid activities that could damage your hearing over time, such as attending loud concerts, hunting, boating, or riding motorcycles.
While age-related hearing loss is gradual, it is preventable. By recognizing the early signs of presbycusis and making proactive choices, such as consulting a doctor and avoiding harmful noise exposure, you can help protect your hearing for years to come.
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By: Shirlynn Cheam
Senior Care Advising Intern at WellPath Partners
Health Care Administration Student, California State University, Long Beach
