Presbycusis: Age related hearing loss
Hearing loss associated with ageing is referred to as presbycusis. It commonly affects people over 60 and occurs gradually.
Presbycusis can be caused by sensorineural hearing loss, a type of hearing loss associated with changes and damage to the inner ear, auditory nerve and pathways to the brain. As hearing loss occurs slowly over time many people adjust to their hearing loss.
In this article:
- Hearing loss signs and symptoms
- Hearing loss risk factors
- Hearing loss diagnosis
- Hearing loss treatment & management
Hearing loss signs and symptoms
People with presbycusis often have problems distinguishing high-pitched sounds such as 's' and 'f' and 't'. They may be able to hear sounds, but the sounds will be less clear and lower in volume making it harder to understand certain words. The degree of hearing loss in each ear can vary.
Common signs and symptoms of hearing loss include:
- Other people’s speech sounds mumbled or slurred
- Difficulty understanding and following conversations
- Problems hearing in noisy environments
- Sensitivity to loud noise
- Difficulty hearing a women’s voice
A person with dementia and hearing loss can have unexplained changes in behaviour patterns, be un-communicative, speak loudly or appear increasingly disorientated.
Hearing loss risk factors
Presbycusis commonly affects people over 60 years. Presbycusis can be caused by many factors including repeated exposure to loud noise, hereditary factors, infection, certain medications, toxins or heart disease.
Hearing loss diagnosis
See your doctor if you experience any problems with hearing. Hearing loss could be related to other medical conditions or causes, some treatable. Your doctor may refer you to an audiologist.
An audiologist can check your hearing with a few simple tests. Audiologists determine the level of hearing loss and recommend the use of hearing aids or assistive listening devices.
Many people do not recognise they have a hearing problem until it is brought to their attention by friends and family. Sometimes it can be very difficult persuading a person to get their hearing checked. A person with hearing loss can be mistaken for being rude or confused.
Hearing loss treatment & management
Hearing loss can cause daily frustrations and may make a person feel isolated and depressed. Management of presbycusis involves strategies to maximise existing hearing and improve communication.
Coping with hearing loss is now easier with the latest technology. Digital hearing aids are small and discreet and can be adjusted to suit individual needs and preferences. Assistive listening devices can help a person talk on the telephone, enjoy TV or listen to music. In some cases an audiologist may simply suggest ways to enhance communication before recommending a hearing instrument.
Tip
Cerumen impaction (excessive ear wax)
Excessive wax in the ear can cause unnecessary hearing loss in ageing people. Left untreated a build up of wax can lead to difficulty communicating, confusion and withdrawal. Always have the ears checked. Treatment involves instilling a softening agent and having the ears syringed by a doctor.
Related articles
References
National Institute on Aging
Hearing Loss
Accessed 18/6/08
Australian Hearing
Hearing loss and age
www.hearing.com.au
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