As we age, we often assume certain physical changes. Our eyesight may weaken, our skin may thin, and our hair may gray. But one of the most significant changes that occur is in our hearing.

It’s a reality that can impact anyone, but particularly those aged 60 and above. Understanding the changes that occur in our ears as we age is the first step in taking preventative measures to maintain our hearing health and overall wellbeing.

The changes in our hearing come from the natural aging of the ear. The ear is a delicate, intricate part of our physical makeup. It’s made up of the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear.

The outer ear captures soundwaves, which are then channeled through the middle ear and on to the inner ear, where they are converted into signals that transmit to the brain as sound. But, our ears’ ability to do so lessens as we age, and the explanation is straightforward: our bodies deteriorate over time.

Age-related hearing loss is a gradual, progressive decline in the ear’s function. The cells in the cochlea, the inner ear organ responsible for converting sound to signals, begin to deteriorate.

As those cells die or become impaired, they don’t regenerate. As a result, sound becomes muffled and less distinct. Additionally, the hairs in the ears that collect sound start to become thinner, so they are not as effective in collecting sounds.

The term for this type of hearing loss is presbycusis, and it’s the most common type of hearing loss in older adults.

Many people don’t realize that their hearing has changed until it’s too late. Getting a baseline hearing test in your 50s or 60s is recommended.

However, there are several signs and symptoms of age-related hearing loss that you may notice before it’s too late.

: Trouble hearing in loud environments

If you’re in a loud area, such as a busy restaurant, and you struggle to hear the conversation, this can be a sign of age-related hearing loss.

The sounds of different people trying to converse can merge together, making it difficult to discern what anyone is saying.

: Asking people to repeat themselves

Another indication of hearing loss is regularly asking people to repeat themselves. This sign is more obvious when having a one-on-one conversation, but also appears in group settings.

: Tinnitus

Tinnitus or ringing in the ear is also a sign of hearing loss. You may hear a constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing sound in one or both ears.

This ringing can be anything from a minor annoyance to a debilitating condition – there is no burnout pattern amongst individuals.

The Impact of Leaning on Untreated Hearing Loss

Untreated hearing loss can have serious negative physical and emotional effects, such as social isolation and reduced cognitive function. Here are five major impacts of hearing loss that are not addressed:.

: Struggles with Balance

Surprisingly, our hearing plays a vital role in our balance.

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Just as the sensory hairs inside our ears pick up sound waves and transmit them into nerve impulses that our brains read as sound, they also help to detect changes in head position, movement, and gravity. The ears help maintain balance and can prevent falls. Balance issues are one of the most common side effects of untreated hearing loss.

: Increased risk of Depression and Anxiety

Hearing loss can lead to depression due to the isolation it can cause. These depression and anxiety symptoms only worsen with the degree of hearing loss.

: Reduced Brain Function

Studies have shown a link between hearing loss and a decline in cognitive function. The decline in brain function leads to deficits in memory, thinking, and communication skills.

: Increased Risk of Dementia

Studies have shown a link between hearing loss and an increased risk of developing dementia later in life.

: Reduced Safety

Hearing loss can make it challenging to hear warning signals such as alarms or danger signals like horns. It can impact your ability to be aware of your surroundings and be mindful of potential dangers.

Preventative Measures to Maintain Hearing Health

While hearing loss is a natural part of aging, there are measures you can take to slow its progression down. Here are five ways to maintain your hearing health:.

Protect Your Ears

Wearing ear protection can help prevent hearing loss in people of all ages, but it is especially important as we age, as our ears are even more sensitive to loud noises.

Can you think of a time that you attended a rock concert or noisy outdoor event and left with ears ringing? That ringing is a result of damaging your ears.

Seek Medical Treatment

If you think you are showing signs of hearing loss, seek advice from a medical professional. A trip to a hearing specialist may prevent the need for more intensive treatments later on.

Know Your Medications

Some medications can affect hearing. If you’re on medication that has this side effect, talk with your doctor. There may be options that have a lesser impact on your hearing.

Live a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is just as important for our ears as it is for our bodies. Poor nutrition, smoking, and substance abuse can trigger hearing loss, so a healthy diet and lifestyle choices are crucial.

Get a Baseline Hearing Test

All adults should get a baseline hearing test in their 50s or early 60s. This test can detect early signs of hearing loss.

If you have a baseline test, you will be able to compare later tests to your first and diagnose any changes in your hearing earlier.

The Bottom Line

Aging is inevitable, and some changes are bound to occur. Hearing loss is not always preventable, but it can be minimized with preventative measures.

Protecting your ears, seeking medical treatment, avoiding harmful substances and lifestyle choices, and getting a baseline hearing test can all help you maintain hearing health.