Presbycusis is the medical term for the progressive loss of hearing that occurs as part of the natural ageing process.
This condition primarily affects the ability to hear high-frequency sounds, such as the beep of a microwave, or the ringing of a phone. It typically presents as a bilateral hearing loss, meaning it impacts both ears equally. Unlike sudden hearing loss, presbycusis develops gradually over time, making it challenging for individuals to recognise its onset.
Presbycusis is not just a physical issue but can also lead to emotional and social challenges. People with untreated presbycusis may struggle with isolation, frustration, or misunderstandings in conversations. This highlights the importance of early diagnosis and intervention to mitigate its effects on daily life.
Presbycusis typically begins to manifest in people over the age of 60, with the likelihood of hearing loss increasing significantly with age. Research shows that approximately 66% of individuals over 60 experience some degree of hearing loss, and this figure rises to 70% among those aged 70 and older.
As Australia’s population continues to age, the prevalence of hearing loss is expected to grow dramatically. By 2060, the number of Australians with hearing impairments is projected to double, reaching an estimated 7.8 million people.
This gradual onset of hearing loss often makes it difficult for individuals to recognise the problem early. Regular hearing assessments are essential, especially for those in higher age brackets, to ensure timely management and diagnosis of presbycusis.
Presbycusis is primarily caused by natural ageing process and its effects on the auditory system.
The main causes include:
The first sign of presbycusis often appears when a person begins to feel uncomfortable with a conversation in a noisy environment, such as a restaurant or at a family meal. When the sound of the telephone or the television appear to be too low, this too can be a sign of hearing loss. Presbycusis can also be manifested by distorted sounds and misinterpreted words.
Presbycusis is, in any case, not to be taken lightly. It can make daily life much more complicated, presenting inconveniences and obvious risks, but can also be at the root of a decline in the frequency of social activities enjoyed.
People with presbycusis are not deaf as such. They continue to hear bass sounds, but high-pitched sounds are hard to distinguish. This is especially true for childish and feminine voices, whispers and some ‘whistling’ consonants (S, Z, CH, V, F). A person suffering from presbycusis symptoms will also have more trouble distinguishing reverberant sounds and will complain more often about tinnitus.
The diagnosis of presbycusis typically begins with an audiogram, a test that measures a person's ability to hear different frequencies. This test is crucial in identifying the characteristic pattern of presbycusis hearing loss, which often affects high-frequency sounds.
Once diagnosed, presbycusis can be managed effectively with several treatment options, with hearing aids being the most common and widely used solution. Hearing aids for presbycusis are designed to amplify sound, making it easier for individuals to hear clearly, particularly in challenging listening environments such as noisy social settings or at home. These devices can be customised to suit the specific needs of each individual, ensuring optimal hearing support.
In addition to hearing aids, sound therapy may also be recommended. This treatment helps retrain the brain to process sound more efficiently, improving the clarity of speech and environmental sounds. However, hearing aids remain the cornerstone of managing presbycusis, offering the most direct and effective improvement in hearing.
While presbycusis is primarily caused by the natural ageing process, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing or worsening hearing loss. Protecting your hearing from a young age can help preserve your hearing health well into older adulthood.
Here are some practical prevention tips:
Presbycusis is a gradual, age-related hearing loss, particularly in high frequencies. Early recognition allows for timely intervention. While it can’t be prevented, protecting hearing and regular check-ups can help manage it, enabling a connected, active life.
