Age-related Hearing Loss

As we age, hearing loss is extremely common. In fact, one in three adults (over age 60) and half of all adults over age 85 are said to experience some degree of hearing loss.

Hearing loss can be due to a number of factors such as aging, genetics, and/or history of noise exposure. Most often, hearing loss can be attributed to the aging process. This type of hearing loss is refered to s presbycusis. Presbycusis often develops gradually, beginning with a difficulty understanding due to a decrease in hearing sensitivity in the higher frequencies. Approximately 70% of the English language is located in the high frequencies of the hearing range.

Untreated hearing loss can negatively affect the ability of individuals to effectively work or socialize. It can lead to a withdrawal from social situations, safety issues, irritability, and depression. The good news is that most types of hearing loss can be diagnosed and treated by hearing specialists known as audiologists.

Hearing aids for age-related hearing loss

Most age-related hearing loss can be significantly improved through the use of hearing aids. There are many types of hearing aids, and your audiologist, will help you choose the best device to fit your clinical and lifestyle needs.

Hearing aids come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors and have become very discreet in design.

In order for your hearing aids to work optimally and improve your quality of life, they should be properly fit in your audiologist’s office. For those with hearing issues, a trusted audiologist can play an important role in your life.

Your audiologist will work with you to help ensure that any and all hearing loss is properly diagnosed and that your hearing aids are fit and programmed properly. Audiologists have the ability to provide a more customized approach to your care by adjusting your hearing aids to address your specific hearing concerns, thus allowing you to better hear a range of different sounds at a more normal volume.

Modern hearing aids also have technology that helps reduce background noise, can single out speaking voices, and improve the experience of talking on the phone.

Seeking proper diagnosis and treatment from an audiologist today can help many with hearing deficits significantly improve their quality of life.