Hearing loss is a general term for the sudden and gradual decline of the auditory system. While there are many causes for hearing loss, most people consider it a part of the aging process. And they’re mostly right! Research indicates that 1 in 3 seniors between the ages of 65 and 74 have hearing loss problems. That statistic goes up to 1 in 2 for those over 75. However, there are other causes of hearing loss in addition to aging. Genetics, chronic disease, and frequent exposure to loud noise are other sources of hearing loss not influenced by age.
Related: How aging affects our senses
Hearing is one of our most complex senses
It involves the ability to identify and hear sounds, plus the brain’s capacity to recognize and interpret them. When either of these skills are in decline it can affect a person on several levels. Hearing loss makes it difficult for a person to socialize with family and friends, enjoy the television or radio, and even hear alarms or doorbells. It’s embarrassing and frustrating for the person and it can also put them in other at more risk for accidents.
If you or a loved one are noticing signs of hearing loss, it’s important that you see your doctor to get help. For now, you can learn more about the different types of hearing loss:
Types of Hearing Loss
Presbycusis
This is general age-related hearing loss. It becomes more common in people as they age and progresses slowly. Presbycusis happens due to changes in the inner, middle and outer ear, as well as the auditory nerve. When affected with presbycusis, a person will find it difficult to hear others and have a hard time handling loud noises.
Conductive Hearing Loss
This is a blockage of the passageway from the outer ear to the inner ear usually caused by excessive ear wax. When left to build up, the blockage can cause infection. Conductive hearing loss is temporary, but when it goes untreated, can create permanent damage. Sufferers of conductive hearing loss often complain of muffled sounds and ringing in the ears.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss
This type of hearing loss is caused by damage to the inner ear, auditory nerve, or hearing passages to the brain. Sensorineural hearing loss usually only affects one part of the hearing spectrum, for example, a difficulty in hearing either high or low frequency, but not both
Tinnitus
While common in seniors and the elderly, tinnitus is a symptom, not a condition. It can accompany each form of hearing loss, but oftentimes comes and goes. People with tinnitus complain of ringing, clicking, hissing or buzzing sounds. The sounds can vary from loud to soft and may be present in one or both ears.
Diagnostics and Treatment
Hearing loss can be diagnosed by your primary care physician, or you may be referred to an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose and throat specialist). A screening by an audiologist may be necessary as well to determine your ability to hear sounds of various pitches and volumes. Luckily, there are excellent assistive hearing devices and technologies that make living with hearing loss easier, safer and more comfortable. Hearing aids work by amplifying only the parts of sound affected, and filter away outside noise. Assistive technologies–like apps, alarms and electronic amplifiers–enhance your environment based on your unique needs.
For more on hearing loss, or to find support and resources for a loved one, contact Care Advantage today at 800-473-0022.
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