Natural Aging (Presbycusis)
“prez-bih-KYOO-sis”
What is Presbycusis?
Presbycusis is the gradual loss of hearing that occurs as people get older. It typically affects both ears equally and progresses slowly over time. This is the most common type of hearing loss, especially in adults over 60.
Why It Happens
As we age, tiny sensory hair cells in the cochlea naturally wear down. Other age-related changes, like stiffening of the auditory nerve or reduced blood flow to the inner ear, also play a role. Genetics, noise exposure over a lifetime, and certain health conditions (like diabetes or hypertension) can speed up the process.
Common Symptoms
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Trouble understanding speech, especially in noisy environments
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Difficulty hearing high-pitched sounds (birds, children’s voices, consonants like s and th)
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Feeling that people “mumble” or speak unclearly
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Needing to turn up the TV or radio louder than others prefer
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Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) often occurring alongside hearing loss
Diagnosis
Presbycusis is confirmed through a hearing test (audiogram). The results typically show a gradual drop in the higher-pitched frequencies first, which explains why clarity is affected even when sounds still seem loud enough.
Treatment Options
While presbycusis cannot be reversed, there are highly effective treatments that restore communication and quality of life:
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Hearing Aids: Amplify speech, reduce background noise, and improve clarity
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Assistive Devices: TV streamers, amplified phones, or wireless microphones
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Communication Strategies: Positioning, lip reading cues, and reducing background noise
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Lifestyle Support: Regular exercise, good diet, and managing health conditions to support hearing and brain health
Why It Matters
Left untreated, presbycusis can contribute to social withdrawal, depression, and cognitive decline. Addressing it early keeps patients connected, engaged, and mentally sharp.