Age-Related Hearing Loss Affects Half of Germans Over 75
Age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis, is a common condition affecting many older adults. It occurs gradually and worsens over time, with nearly half of those over 75 experiencing difficulty hearing. In Germany, around 50% of people aged 75 and older are affected.
Age-related hearing loss is caused by various changes in the inner ear, including structural changes, reduced blood flow, nerve damage, and deterioration of tiny hairs responsible for transmitting sound. Symptoms often begin with an inability to hear high-pitched sounds, difficulty hearing women or children's voices, and increased sensitivity to background noises. Other symptoms may include certain sounds seeming overly loud, difficulty hearing in noisy areas, and struggling to distinguish between 's' and 'th' sounds. Those affected may also experience ringing in the ears, turn up the volume excessively, ask others to repeat, and have difficulties with telephone conversations.
Diagnosing age-related hearing loss involves a full physical exam, otoscope examination, and a hearing test performed by an audiologist. Preventive measures include avoiding repetitive exposure to loud sounds, wearing ear protection, and controlling blood sugar if diabetic. Other causes of age-related hearing loss include diabetes, poor circulation, exposure to loud noises, use of certain medications, family history of hearing loss, and smoking.
Approximately 30% to 35% of adults between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some degree of age-related hearing loss. While there is no cure, treatments include hearing aids, assistive devices, sign language or lip reading lessons, and cochlear implants for severe cases. Using these devices can improve quality of life, helping those with age-related hearing loss to communicate more effectively and engage with their surroundings.
Read also:
- Trump's SNAP reductions and New York City Council's grocery delivery legislation: Problems for city residents highlighted
- Reducing dental expenses for elderlies in Sweden: Over 50% cut in charges for pensioners by the government
- Forty-year-old diet: A list of meal choices to savor
- Exiled Life's Conundrum: A Blend of Liberation, Disillusionment, and Distress
