Hearing Loss and Aging: What Everyone Over 50 Should Know

As we get older, our bodies change in many ways. Reduced hearing health is one of the more common issues that people over the age of 50 begin to experience. While an audiologist helps patients of any age, many provide services for older adults as they begin to notice their hearing ability fading. If you are in this age category – or approaching it – here’s what you need to know about your auditory system and how aging can impact your hearing.

Hearing Loss is More Likely as You Age

Hearing loss affects an estimated 15% of the adult population, but that figure more than doubles to one in three for older generations. When hearing loss develops at a later stage in life, it often progresses at a quicker speed. Because of this acceleration, it is important to visit the audiologist more frequently once you hit 50. If you previously booked an appointment every five years, you may want to make this trip every three years now. It will enable you to respond quickly if you do begin to experience hearing loss.

Sensorineural Hearing Loss is the Most Common Culprit

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) is the most common type experienced by patients in the over 50s age group. It occurs when the tiny hair cells within the cochlea become damaged, thus meaning sound does not travel effectively. It is also possible for SNHL to be linked to a damaged auditory nerve. Either way, you may experience tinnitus, dizziness and muffled hearing. You may also struggle to follow group conversations or understand children or women with high-pitched voices.

Age-Related Hearing Loss Occurs in Both Ears

While some patients will experience hearing loss in one ear only, most cases involve gradual hearing loss in both ears. This is known as presbycusis. Although hearing loss is experienced in both ears, it’s very likely that one ear will show more severe symptoms. It’s important to undergo thorough hearing examinations that assess each ear. Clear results will give you the best chance of finding the right solution and, if required, selecting the best hearing aids.

You May Not Even Notice That You Have Hearing Loss

Even if you know the symptoms of hearing loss, it should be noted that the human brain is very good at trying to compensate for what it doesn’t hear. Moreover, you do not know what other people can hear and they cannot tell what you hear either. Many people ignore the early signs of hearing loss until it progresses to the severe or profound stage. An audiologist can complete the necessary examinations to gain a clear picture of your hearing profile and build a tailored response around it.

Lifestyle Modifications May Slow Hearing Problems

Hearing loss can be attributed to many factors, including genetics. As such, it may be impossible to prevent all hearing loss. Nevertheless, calculated decisions and choices help prevent or slow noise-related hearing loss. For example, avoiding environments with loud noises or limiting your exposure through earplugs can make a difference. Likewise, getting hearing aids rather than resorting to having devices turned up the loudest setting can bring long-term rewards.

Hearing Health Links Closely To Your General Wellness

Taking better care of your hearing health is one of the most important steps you could take towards improved overall wellness. For starters, your hearing impacts how you interact with your surroundings as well as other people. Naturally, it’ll impact your mental health. Hearing loss may subconsciously encourage you to avoid social circles, especially once you reach retirement age.

Studies have examined connections between hearing health and Alzheimer’s disease. The research suggests that individuals with untreated hearing loss may be at a higher risk of developing cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. Addressing hearing loss with hearing aids may potentially reduce this risk, highlighting the importance of considering hearing health as a component of overall cognitive well-being.

There is nothing to worry about

Despite the clear issues linked to reduced hearing, up to 40% of older patients who think they have hearing loss allow the issue to go unreported. Whether it’s due to embarrassment, a fear of the audiologists, or not wanting to cause a fuss doesn’t matter. It has to end. Assessments are not invasive and appointments do not take long.

Your audiologist will be there to provide a tailored service from the first interaction. It can be the key to improved hearing health with quick results and lasting rewards. To learn more about hearing health in your 50s and beyond, contact Great Lakes Bay Hearing at (989) 941-0627 now.