According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, about 1 in 3 adults between 65 and 74 experience some form of hearing loss. But because symptoms appear gradually, many seniors don’t realize the changes right away. Here are some key pointers and reminders to help detect hearing loss.
Keep Your Ears Perked for These Hearing Loss Symptoms
Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is a gradual decline in hearing that occurs as we age. It’s one of the most common conditions affecting older adults, often caused by natural changes in the inner ear, prolonged exposure to noise, genetics, or health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Because the changes happen slowly, many seniors don’t realize their hearing is declining until it starts affecting daily life.
So, what should you watch for? Here’s what to look out for when it comes to hearing loss in yourself or a loved one.
Difficulty Understanding Conversations
Do voices sound muffled, or do people seem to be mumbling more than they used to? Struggling to follow conversations, especially in noisy places like restaurants or family gatherings, is an early indicator of hearing loss. If you’re missing words or struggling in loud environments, it could be time to check your hearing.
Repeatedly Asking People to Repeat Themselves
“Could you say that again?” If you find yourself asking this question in conversations more often, take it as a sign to check in on your ears. While the change happens slowly, you may notice it more in group settings or when someone is speaking softly.
Trouble Hearing on the Phone
If voices sound faint even with the volume up, it might not be a bad connection—it could be a problem with your ears. Hearing loss often makes it harder to pick up on high-pitched sounds, like the clarity in voices over the phone. This can lead to frustration, missed details, or avoiding phone calls altogether.
Needing to Turn the TV/Radio Up Excessively
Turning the volume way up but still missing parts of the show? Many seniors with hearing loss find themselves increasing the volume on their devices to hear more clearly. If others complain that it’s too loud while it still sounds normal to you, it could be time to explore hearing support options.
Hearing loss impacts more than just your ears. It affects your ability to connect with loved ones, enjoy your favorite activities, and maintain independence. By recognizing the early signs of hearing loss and taking proactive steps, you can protect your hearing and get help early.
