A condition in which an elderly person’s hearing fails gradually, through to degeneration of the internal ear.
Deafness that comes on with increasing years. It is caused by increasing loss of elasticity in the hearing mechanism, combined with the slowing down of the mental processes that accompanies old age. It is characterized by particular difficulty in hearing high notes such as the telephone and the voices of women and children. Hearing in a background of noise is also affected. Modern, miniaturized, transistor ‘within-the-ear’ hearing aids are now available that are proving helpful in making life more bearable for the hearing-impaired.
The gradual decline in auditory acuity that happens as a person ages is known as presbycusis. This condition involves sensorineural hearing impairment, marked by the deterioration of hair cells and nerve fibers within the inner ear. Consequently, sounds become less distinct and tones less perceivable.
The indications of presbycusis emerge gradually over time. Individuals affected by this condition frequently encounter challenges in comprehending speech and struggle with hearing amidst background noise. The intensity and advancement of the disorder exhibit significant differences among individuals.
Exposure to elevated noise levels, reduced blood circulation to the inner ear due to atherosclerosis (the accumulation of fatty deposits on artery walls), and harm to the inner ear caused by medications like aminoglycoside drugs can exacerbate presbycusis.
Diagnosis involves a physical examination conducted with an otoscope, in addition to a range of hearing assessments aimed at identifying the specific nature and extent of hearing impairment. Hearing aids are effective in assisting the majority of individuals affected by this condition.