Presbycusis: Age Related Hearing Loss

In adults over age 65 years, hearing loss is a common problem. One-third of elderly Americans have age-related hearing loss according to the American Speech, Hearing and Language Association. Despite the severity of the problem, many hearing impaired seniors do not seek treatment. Untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation, frustration, withdrawal from social activities and depression. Fortunately, because of advances in audiology, seniors with age related hearing loss can lead full and complete lives.

Three types of hearing loss are prevalent in older adults. They are tinnitus, conductive hearing loss and presbycusis. The most common form of hearing loss in people over 65 years old is presbycusis, a form of age related hearing loss. Presbycusis is caused by the natural aging process of the peripheral and central auditory system. The symptoms of presbycusis include difficulty hearing shrill sounds or hearing above loud background noise. Other symptoms include listening to the television at a louder volume than normal. Hearing-impaired seniors frequently ask people to repeat themselves during conversations. Because of presbycusis, elderly adults may experience social withdrawal, frustration and difficulty participating in daily activities and family events.

Presbycusis cannot be reversed. However, hearing can be improved with treatment and assistive devices. If you are hard of hearing, your medical doctor can to refer you to an audiologist. An audiologist can conduct a hearing test to determine the amount of hearing impairment you have. They can also help you decide whether a hearing aid or other device is needed to improve your hearing. Besides hearing aids, there are other assistive devices for the hard of hearing including closed caption TV, alert systems, and telephones with adjustable volume. With medical treatment and a hearing aid, elderly adults with hearing impairment can enjoy life and participate in social and family activities without embarrassment.