The prevalence of hearing loss increases with age, according to the World Health Organization. So, it's common for seniors to experience hearing impairments, such as sensorineural hearing loss.
Age-related hearing loss is unavoidable, but there are various things you can do to mitigate its effects and improve quality of life. For instance, using hearing aids or getting treatment can restore your hearing.
Inner ear damage is the most common cause of sensorineural hearing loss. Read on as we explore the leading causes behind this condition, treatment options, and what you can do to achieve better well-being.
Although the main symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss may seem apparent, they can be difficult to notice, making it difficult to get treatment. Some of the common signs you have this particular type of hearing loss include:
You may also experience balance and mobility issues due to damage in the inner ear. The symptoms associated with hearing loss usually develop gradually and vary in severity. Getting your hearing tested is necessary the older you get to ensure you seek treatment as soon as possible.
Many factors can contribute to the occurrence and progression of sensorineural hearing loss. The condition can appear suddenly or gradually progress with greater hearing loss as you age. Some of the main causes are:
Aging is one of the most common causes of sensorineural hearing loss. The main feature of this cause is that you lose your hearing as you grow older. The reasons for age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) may be due to:
A crucial indicator of age-related hearing loss is difficulty hearing high-frequency sounds. You can also have this condition if you experience difficulty understanding speech, even in quiet environments.
Moving to the serene environment of the Parkland assisted living community can help mitigate the progression of age-related deafness. You'll get access to daily assistance, and the staff will ensure you understand all the hearing aid options you need.
Prolonged noise exposure can contribute to sensorineural deafness by damaging the inner ear. Exposing yourself to sounds above 85 decibels can cause permanent damage. Although the damage may not be apparent immediately, you'll likely begin experiencing symptoms later.
Tinnitus usually accompanies noise-induced hearing loss. The damage from noise is irreversible, so minimizing noise in your living environment or workplace is crucial.
Various ototoxic medications can damage your inner ear. These include:
You should see a doctor if you begin experiencing hearing loss when using specific medications. In addition, consult your physician to understand any potential side effects of any drugs, especially for chronic conditions.
According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, neither surgery nor medicine can cure sensorineural hearing loss. However, addressing any underlying conditions causing deafness can improve your hearing.
Head trauma and metabolic conditions can damage the blood vessels in the ear. Improving blood circulation to the cochlea will reduce the severity of your hearing impairment.
The severity of your hearing impairment and any underlying causes will affect the treatment options. Senior hearing health is better addressed in a supportive environment such as an assisted living community.
The main treatment options for hearing loss include:
Hearing aid options are not designed to treat hearing loss but focus on amplifying sound. The options differ based on the degree of hearing loss and your preferences. A behind-the-ear hearing aid is ideal because it's easy to handle due to its adjustability.
Hearing aids can help you minimize noise in your environment, mitigating the risk of further damage to your ears. Modern aids come with rechargeable batteries and have Bluetooth capability features.
Different medical therapeutic approaches can treat sensorineural hearing loss. Key medications your doctor will likely prescribe include:
There is currently no FDA-approved drug for treating sensorineural deafness. It's advisable to talk to your doctor about the efficacy of any drug they prescribe for hearing loss. Although the drugs can slow down the progression of hearing loss, they may not reverse the damage.
Cochlear implants are only necessary if there is severe hearing loss. The implant is surgically implanted in your inner ear, and its primary function is to transmit sound to the auditory nerve. You'll have to undergo rehabilitation and training to adapt to sound signals fully.
You can also use assistive listening devices if you don't want to get cochlea implants. For example, you can use speech-to-text applications to communicate more effectively with loved ones.
The Parkland senior living community provides a home-like environment specifically designed to improve your quality of life. The residential living options mitigate noise-induced hearing loss.
Further, the amenities and services available can improve your overall well-being. Greater physical activity can improve circulation to your ears, enhancing your hearing ability. You can also get specialized care from the trained staff at the Parkland Memory Care community.
Other ways a senior living community can enhance your well-being and improve your hearing are:
You will also have better communication options to enhance your ability to interact with peers and loved ones.
Sensorineural hearing loss is one of the most common conditions associated with aging. But a hearing impairment shouldn't prevent you from enjoying life.
Aston Gardens at Parkland Commons offers various senior living programs to meet your needs and improve your welfare. We pride ourselves on providing our residents with the highest standard of care with a dedicated team of expertly trained staff.
Contact us today to book a tour of our community in Parkland, FL.