What is the Average Age a Person Starts Experiencing Hearing Loss?

Hearing loss can happen for different reasons, and it affects people in various ways. Some individuals lose their hearing due to exposure to loud noises, whether from a single loud sound or long-term noise exposure. However, one of the most common types is hearing loss that comes with age. This gradual change happens as people grow older and is a natural part of the aging process. Many older adults experience it over time. Here is what you should know about when hearing loss typically begins and what factors can influence it.

What is Age-Related Hearing Loss?

Age-related hearing loss is a gradual decrease in hearing ability that happens as people get older. It usually affects both ears and develops slowly over time, making it harder to notice at first. Many individuals with this type of hearing loss find it difficult to hear high-pitched sounds, like birds chirping or conversations in noisy places. While it is a natural part of aging, the severity of hearing loss can vary from person to person.

This type of hearing loss happens because of changes in the inner ear. Tiny hair cells inside the ear help process sound, but they can become damaged or wear down with age. Once these cells are damaged, they do not grow back, which makes hearing loss permanent. Even though age-related hearing loss cannot be reversed, there are ways to manage it. Hearing aids, assistive listening devices and communication strategies can help improve hearing and make conversations easier. Regular hearing checkups can also help detect changes early and provide the right support. Staying proactive about hearing health can make a big difference in maintaining a good quality of life as people age.

How Does Hearing Loss Occur?

Hearing loss happens when parts of the ear or the nerves that send sound signals to the brain become damaged or stop working properly. However, hearing loss can also be caused by other factors, like exposure to loud noise, infections, injuries or blockages in the ear.

On average, many people start noticing signs of hearing loss in their 50s or 60s, but it can happen earlier depending on lifestyle and health factors. Long-term exposure to loud sounds, like from machinery, concerts or headphones, can affect your hearing. Injuries to the ear, like a sudden loud explosion or a head injury, can also damage hearing. Infections can lead to temporary or permanent hearing loss if they affect the ear or cause inflammation. Even a buildup of earwax or fluid can block sound and make it harder to hear, though this type of hearing loss is usually temporary.

Since hearing loss can have different causes, it’s important to take steps to protect your ears. Wearing ear protection in noisy environments, keeping the volume at a safe level when using headphones, and seeking treatment for infections early can help reduce the risk of hearing problems. Regular hearing checkups can also help catch any changes in hearing and provide solutions to manage it effectively.

When Should You Get Your Hearing Tested?

Getting your hearing tested around age 50 is a good way to catch early signs of age-related hearing loss. Since this type of hearing loss happens gradually, many people don’t notice the changes right away. If you often turn up the TV, have trouble following conversations or ask others to repeat themselves, it might be time for a hearing check. Testing your hearing early can help you manage any changes and find ways to improve communication before it becomes a bigger challenge.

If you have a history of hearing loss in your family or have spent years around loud noise, it may be helpful to get tested even sooner. Regular hearing tests can track any changes and help you adjust to hearing aids or other solutions if needed. Just like getting your eyes or teeth checked, taking care of your hearing is an important part of staying healthy as you age.

What Are Ways to Prevent Hearing Loss?

Protecting your hearing can help reduce the risk of hearing loss as you get older. One of the best ways to prevent hearing loss is by avoiding loud noises. If you are around loud sounds at work, concerts or while using power tools, wearing earplugs, earmuffs or noise-canceling headphones can help protect your ears. Keeping the volume at a safe level when listening to music or watching TV can also make a big difference.

Taking care of your overall health can also support better hearing. Regular exercise, a balanced diet and managing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes can help maintain good circulation to the ears. Avoiding smoking is another important step, as smoking can increase the risk of hearing loss. Seeing a hearing instrument specialist regularly for checkups can help catch any problems early and keep your hearing health on track.

If you are experiencing hearing loss, or already have hearing loss, wearing hearing aids can help protect your remaining hearing and improve your quality of life. There are different types of hearing aids to fit different needs, including:

• Behind the ear (BTE)
• In the ear (ITE)
• In the canal (ITC)
• Completely in canal (CIC)
• Invisible in canal (IIC)
• Receiver in canal (RIC)

A hearing instrument specialist can help you choose the right option based on the severity of your hearing loss and your lifestyle. Ensuring you have a good listening experience and to improve your quality of life.

Seeing a Hearing Instrument Specialist

If you think you have noticed any signs of hearing loss, whether you are over the age of 65 or not, you must make an appointment to see a hearing instrument specialist as soon as possible. A hearing instrument specialist will be able to develop a treatment plan for you, making sure you have the right options for your specific needs. If you believe you are experiencing hearing loss, schedule an appointment with a hearing instrument specialist. They will be able to answer any questions you have.