Many people associate old age with being “hard of hearing,” and that isn’t unfounded. Older people are much more likely to experience some level of hearing loss, even if they don’t realize it. What is geriatric hearing loss and how does it occur?
What Does “Geriatric” Mean?
Patients are considered geriatric when they are aged about 65 and over. Most people do not need geriatric care until well into their 70s, however. People in need of geriatric care can have a wide range of age-related issues, such as dementia, arthritis, vision impairment and, commonly, hearing impairment.
How Does Aging Affect Hearing?
It is thought that geriatric patients are especially affected by hearing loss simply because the delicate hearing structures wear down over time. Long exposure to noise over a lifetime can cause significant hearing loss. In fact, it is more common than not for a person in their older or elderly age to experience some form of hearing loss.
Another reason for slow loss of hearing over time is a condition called presbycusis. Doctors aren’t sure why this condition affects some people more than others, but it does seem to be related to genetics.
Hearing loss can also be caused by viral or bacterial infections, heart conditions and stroke, head injuries, tumors and certain medications. All of these conditions become more common as people age.
Hearing Loss Treatments
Age-related hearing loss is not usually repairable, but it can be easily managed through the use of hearing devices and other communication tools. Different types of hearing devices are available to help people with age-related hearing loss, and new technology meant to help the hearing impaired is developed every day. Adults with hearing loss have more options than ever to be able to live full and normal lives.
Coping With Hearing Loss
For people who went their entire lives with normal hearing, it can be very difficult to accept hearing loss later in life. Many people who are diagnosed with hearing loss feel embarrassed, frustrated or even experience depression. Here at SightMD, we do everything we can to help our patients cope with this new phase of their lives. We offer plenty of resources to help our patients navigate their lives successfully and without difficulty.
We understand that with this new phase comes an adjustment period. During this time, we find it extremely important to find a support system, either through friends or family, that can remain helpful and understanding.
In addition to being fitted with hearing devices, we suggest our patients take advantage of the many resources available for hearing impaired adults. Assistive listening devices like telephone-amplifying devices, smartphone or tablet apps, and closed circuit systems in theaters and auditoriums can be extremely helpful.
If you are searching for a practice that specializes in geriatric hearing services, look no further than SightMD. SightMD has a proud reputation for making hearing and vision services accessible to people throughout Long Island. We are happy to help you find the right hearing loss treatment. Call us or contact us online to schedule your appointment with one of our experienced Long Island audiologists!