According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 25% of older adults worldwide are affected by hearing loss. The chances of developing hearing impairment issues increase with age.
Hearing loss affects functional ability and communication and is usually associated with depression, cognitive decline, and decreased quality of life. Hearing problems that are left untreated tend to worsen over time.
This article discusses the various types of hearing loss that affect seniors and their implications.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association attests that sensorineural hearing loss is the most common hearing impairment category. It occurs when the hearing nerve connected to the brain is damaged, resulting in permanent hearing loss.
Sensorineural hearing loss can happen to a person either gradually or all at once. Some of the causes of this hearing impairment include the following:
Sudden sensorineural hearing loss is a medical emergency; you should visit a specialist immediately if you notice signs of hearing loss. Although this type of hearing loss can't be cured, hearing aids can be beneficial.
This hearing impairment occurs when there's a middle or outer ear blockage, preventing sound from being carried to the outer ear. Conductive hearing loss makes it challenging to hear softer sounds; sometimes, louder sounds may be muffled.
Some of the factors that may cause sound to be obstructed include the following:
Conductive hearing loss is treatable or manageable, depending on its cause. Hearing aids can help transmit sound.
Mixed hearing loss is a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing impairments. For instance, you could develop conductive hearing loss due to blockage in your inner ear and sensorineural hearing impairment due to old age.
With mixed hearing loss, you may experience various signs and symptoms. These include the following:
Various risk factors make you more prone to developing mixed hearing loss. These include:
If you or your loved one is experiencing sensorineural, cognitive, or mixed hearing loss symptoms, you should visit an audiologist immediately. Some of the diagnostic tests carried out for this type of hearing loss include the following:
This hearing test assesses how well your middle ear is functioning. It measures the response of the eardrum to changes in atmospheric pressure.
This test measures the level of your hearing sensitivity through different frequencies. Audiometry hearing test determines the degree and type of hearing loss you may be experiencing.
This hearing test determines your ability to understand speech. It assesses how well you can differentiate spoken words and your speech understanding at different volume levels.
This test quantifies the quality of sound that comes from tiny hair cells in the inner ear. It also evaluates how well these cells function and responds to sound.
During this hearing test, an audiologist uses a tuning fork to check the sound perception in both ears. It's a simple and quick hearing screening test that helps to diagnose hearing loss.
The treatment approach for hearing loss depends on the extent of the condition and its root cause. Some of the treatment options for various hearing impairment categories include the following:
These are devices meant to amplify sounds, making it easier for older adults with hearing loss issues to listen and understand speech. Hearing aids come in different styles and types to accommodate various preferences.
In case of severe sensorineural hearing loss that can't be solved by hearing aids, you or your loved one may get a cochlear implant. These implants send sound signals straight to the hearing nerve despite damaged hair cells in the inner ear. Cochlear implants help patients to understand and hear sounds.
These listening devices are meant to help you understand speech in difficult situations. Such situations include talking on the phone, attending meetings, or watching television.
In case of structural issues in your ears, your doctor may perform middle ear surgery. This surgery removes diseased cells or repairs a perforated ear drum.
It's important to note that not all cases of hearing loss in older adults can be prevented. However, there are specific steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing these complications. Some prevention tips include the following:
Dealing with hearing loss can be frustrating, especially for seniors. Here are ways to cope with hearing loss while staying in an assisted living community in Knoxville:
Communities that offer short-term care for seniors in Knoxville can help you cope with hearing loss by providing a conducive environment where you can interact with peers with similar issues. By staying at an assisted living community, you get personalized care to help you improve your senior auditory health.
Hearing loss is a common problem among seniors caused by genetic variations, disease, loud noise, or aging. It's essential to seek medical help if you suspect you may have any of the types of hearing loss discussed above.
Deane Hill Place Assisted Living & Memory Care provides a vibrant community and personalized care for seniors in Knoxville, TN. Our assisted living community makes it easy for residents to flourish physically and mentally through customized care plans that cater to everyone's unique needs.
Contact us and experience the best senior living for yourself or your loved one.