If you are an American between the ages of 65 and 74, chances are high you have some form of hearing loss. In fact, some statistics estimate it to be one out of every three. If you are a senior aged 85 or more, you may be among the half that does suffer from age-related hearing loss or presbycusis. The extent of this problem can vary. For some seniors it is a minor problem. They simply no longer can hear certain sounds. For others, the hearing loss is more extensive. In most cases, however, this natural, age-related process comes to us all.
Why Do you Lose your Hearing as you Age?
As you age, a number of factors contribute to your loss of hearing. Some are specifically age-related; others are contributory factors.
Common reasons for you losing your ability to hear as you once did are:
-
- Long exposure to loud sounds and other noises
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Medications
- Abnormalities of the outer or middle ear
While most age-related hearing problems result from natural changes in the inner ear, anything that negatively affects the sensory cells in your ears can contribute to hearing loss. In many cases, the loss of hearing capabilities in seniors is the result of a mixture of noise-engendered and age-related factors.
The Impact of Hearing Loss for the Elderly
If you are a senior, hearing loss can negatively upset your life in a variety of ways. The result may be as simple as missing what friends and family are saying. You may not be able to catch everything your doctor is telling you or what the pundits on television are trying to convey. As a result, you may feel isolated. You can withdraw.
If you do not admit you have a hearing problem, misunderstandings easily occur. People consider you:
-
- Difficult
- Confused
- Uncaring
- Withdrawn
It is important you put aside any embarrassment. Avoid isolating yourself from those who can help you. Take an important step and visit your family doctor or ENT specialist.
Treatment for Seniors with Hearing Loss
You may never get your full range of hearing back. However, by talking to a medical professional, he or she can offer suggestions to improve the quality of your life. The most common means of treating most regular forms of aged-related hearing problems is simple – hearing aids. ENT specialists can help you address this situation, helping you to discover what will work best for your specific type of hearing lost. The right hearing aids, together with various technologically advanced.
Contact us at 212-867-4813 to schedule a consultation
