Hearing Loss and Aging: What Everyone Over 50 Should Know

As we age, we will experience various changes in our physical health and senses. Hearing loss is a common issue that many people develop as they get older. Presbycusis, commonly known as age-related hearing loss, is defined as the gradual loss of hearing in both ears, with one in three adults over the age of 65 experiencing hearing loss. Those ages 50 or older may believe there is plenty of time to fix this; however, if you are 50 years or older, here are a few things to keep in mind about hearing loss and the aging process.

What Causes Age-Related Hearing Loss?

Age-related hearing loss can occur gradually over time. It doesn’t occur overnight and can arise from a number of different factors. These include some of the following:

Lifestyle Choices

Smoking and other poor dietary habits can have an impact on overall health, including hearing. Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of hearing loss because inhaled smoke irritates the Eustachian tube, which connects the back of the nose with the inner ear and acts as a drain for fluid. Irritation of this tube can result in fluid retention, infections, and pain.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can increase the risk of age-related hearing loss. Hearing loss can also be a side effect of certain medications like antibiotics, so monitoring age-related medical conditions should be a priority.

Exposure to Noise

Long-term exposure to loud noises can contribute to hearing loss, as it can erode the tiny hair cells that pick up external noise. There is currently no way to reverse hearing loss by restoring these little hairs, so if you work in noisy environments or attend concerts without protection, this can contribute to hearing loss over time.

Changes to the Inner Ear

Over time, the hair cells inside your inner ear can die or become damaged, reducing the brain’s ability to process sounds. These changes in those hairs are a culmination of some of the previous factors.

Genetics

It’s also important to point out that family history can play a major role in age-related hearing loss. If hearing loss runs in the family, you might have a higher risk of developing hearing loss as you get older.

Understanding the Signs of Hearing Loss

Because age-related hearing loss develops gradually, the progression can be too subtle to notice. Therefore, we must recognize the signs early on so we can intervene appropriately. Common signs of hearing loss include the following:

• Tinnitus: People with hearing loss can experience tinnitus, which could be a buzzing, ringing, or hissing sound in the ears.
• Social isolation: If you are experiencing any form of hearing loss or struggle to concentrate in social settings, there is the potential for people to withdraw from social situations they once enjoyed.
• Difficulty hearing in noisy environments: Individuals with hearing loss can have difficulty following conversations in places like restaurants or gatherings. This can contribute to the aforementioned isolation.
• Turning up the volume and asking for repetition: These are two common signs that can be part of the beginning stages of hearing loss. If you experience any of these, one of the best ways to intervene is to book an appointment with an audiologist.

Why Should We Address Hearing Loss Early?

People at the age of 50 may think they’ve got plenty of time to address their hearing loss, but early detection is key to restoring quality of life and to prevent further deterioration. There are numerous benefits to treating hearing loss, including:

• Improved cognitive health: Untreated hearing loss is potentially linked with an increased risk of age-related cognitive decline, such as dementia.
• Increased sense of safety: Being able to perceive danger through your ears is a key part of anybody’s ability to stay safe.
• Improved relationships and quality of life: Untreated hearing loss can cause strains in relationships due to communication difficulties. Treating hearing loss can significantly enhance somebody’s quality of life as they will engage more fully in every part of their life and improve their well-being.

Age-related hearing loss is a common condition; however, it can be manageable in anybody over the age of 50 as long as you recognize the signs. The best place to begin is to book an appointment with an audiologist to check your hearing. You can contact Jul Hearing Aid Solutions at (717) 205-2423. We will be more than happy to get your hearing checked out and show you the best ways to prevent hearing loss.