Understanding and Preventing Hearing Loss in Older Adults
Hearing loss is a common part of aging, often due to changes in our ears as we grow older. While we can’t stop these age-related changes entirely, that doesn’t mean hearing loss is inevitable. With the right preventive measures, you can maintain good hearing health well into your later years.
Hearing loss affects millions of older adults worldwide. Research shows that between 30–35% of adults between the age of 65 and 74 experience some degree of hearing impairment. By age 75, that number rises to nearly 50%. Despite its prevalence, hearing loss often goes undiagnosed and untreated, which can lead to communication challenges, social isolation, and even cognitive decline. The good news? Many cases of hearing loss can be prevented or managed with the right approach.
How to protect your hearing
One of the most effective ways to preserve hearing is by limiting your exposure to loud noises. Long-term exposure to sounds above 85 decibels—such as concerts, heavy traffic, or power tools—can cause permanent damage. If you frequently find yourself in noisy environments, using earplugs or noise-canceling headphones can significantly reduce your risk. Additionally, keeping the volume at a moderate level when using personal audio devices helps protect your ears over time.
Maintaining your overall health is also an important part of hearing preservation. Conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and poor circulation can contribute to hearing loss by affecting blood flow to the inner ear. A heart-healthy lifestyle—including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and not smoking—can help protect your auditory system.
Certain medications, known as ototoxic drugs, can also damage hearing. These include some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and high doses of aspirin. If you’re concerned about medication side effects, discuss alternatives with your doctor.
Most importantly, older adults should be regularly screened for hearing loss. Our hearing can diminish so gradually that we might not notice we have a problem! If some hearing is already lost, hearing aids can help. But many seniors delay getting hearing aids because of the cost, a perceived stigma, or difficulty adjusting to them.
The connection between hearing and brain health
One of the most compelling reasons to take hearing loss seriously is its link to brain health. Studies have shown that untreated hearing loss is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia. The brain works harder to decipher sounds when hearing is impaired, which can take a toll on cognitive function over time. By treating hearing loss early, you can help preserve cognitive health and maintain an active, engaged lifestyle.
Experts say that hearing aids are not the only intervention for people experiencing hearing loss. Turning on subtitles while watching television, using speech-to-text applications, and visiting with people in quieter environments are all ways that people with hearing loss can help stimulate the parts of the brain associated with communication.
The evolution of hearing loss treatments
The good news is that hearing loss treatments have come a long way. The first hearing devices, such as ear trumpets, were used in the 18th century to amplify sound. In 1898, the first electric hearing aid was developed by Miller Reese Hutchison, paving the way for modern technology. Today, hearing aids are smaller, more powerful, and customizable, with features like noise reduction, directional microphones, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids have made treatment more accessible, allowing individuals to purchase them without a prescription. These devices provide an affordable option for those with mild to moderate hearing loss, reducing barriers to treatment.
Additionally, consumer technology is beginning to play a role in hearing assistance. Apple’s AirPods Pro 2, for example, offer hearing enhancement features that can help individuals with mild hearing loss. Such innovations provide more options for those looking to improve their hearing without committing to traditional hearing aids.
If you are experiencing hearing problems, make an appointment to protect your hearing—and your brain.
This article is not intended to replace the advice of your health care provider.
Source: IlluminAge
