From retirement to your grandchild’s graduation, there are plenty of things about your senior years to look forward to. However, it’s also important to be on the lookout for common age-related health issues, such as hearing loss. This ailment can be difficult to identify, but you can use these frequently asked questions to find the answers you’re looking for.

What You Should Know About Age-Related Hearing Loss

What is age-related hearing loss?

Presbycusis, or the natural loss of hearing that comes with old age, is common among senior citizens. In the US, it affects about a third of the population between ages 65 and 74, and almost 50% of those older. If you are experiencing age-related hearing loss, you might have trouble understanding hushed conversations and find yourself asking loved ones to repeat themselves often. As it worsens, you may have difficulty hearing important noises like ringtones, doorbells, and car noises.

Why does it occur?

Every time you hear a loud noise, a set of small hairs inside your ears are pressed down. After being pressed down so many times, they will naturally deteriorate. As these hair cells die out, your sense of hearing will become less perceptive, and you may only be able to hear loud noises clearly. In some cases, the auditory decline may be worsened by certain medications or conditions like high blood pressure.

Can it be prevented?

There is currently no cure for this hearing loss, as it is a natural consequence of the body’s aging process. However, you can reduce the risk of premature hearing loss by limiting your exposure to extremely loud, long noises. This means avoiding frequent headphone use at high volumes and wearing noise-reducing earmuffs in loud environments, such as while working on a construction site or using yard maintenance equipment.

How is it treated?

Once you have your hearing tested by an audiologist, they can determine the severity of your hearing loss. If it’s substantial, they may prescribe hearing aids, small devices that amplify nearby noises and redirect them into your ears. These can be easily removed when you go to sleep or enjoy quiet time, then reinserted when you want to start your day.

If you suspect you’re dealing with age-related hearing loss, turn to Russellville Hearing Clinic.  Dr. Charlie Palmer has been practicing as an audiologist for over 20 years and has been serving Russellville, AR, patients for over 15 years. He offers many hearing aid brands, so you can find the device that’s just right. To learn more about his practice, visit the website, or call (479) 968-7250 to schedule your hearing test.