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Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis)

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What is age-related hearing loss?

Age-related hearing loss (or presbycusis) is a form of hearing loss that occurs gradually during the aging process. Usually, this type of hearing loss affects both ears. Depending on certain factors, age-related hearing loss can start in a person's thirties or forties and usually increases gradually over time.

It is one of the most common conditions affecting older and elderly adults.

Help someone with hearing loss

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Book a free test for age-related hearing loss

Schedule a free hearing test to find out if you have presbycusis. We can explain your condition and suggest treatment options.
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What causes age-related hearing loss?

The main cause of age-related hearing loss is aging. Most commonly, it arises due to changes in the inner ear as you grow older. The factors that can have an influence on age-related hearing loss are the following:

  • Genes
  • Certain medical conditions
  • Side effects of certain drugs and medications
  • Age
  • Smoking
  • Repeated exposure to loud noises

Causes of hearing loss


Did you know?

While men are more likely to develop a hearing loss in higher frequencies, women often have hearing loss in lower frequencies.

The frequency of your hearing loss refers to whether you are having trouble hearing high-pitched or low-pitched sounds.

High-frequency hearing loss

Low-frequency hearing loss

6 common signs and symptoms of age-related hearing loss

The signs and symptoms of age-related hearing loss can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include the following:

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1. You have difficulty following group conversations (especially when background noise is present)
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2. You have trouble understanding speech communicated over loudspeakers in public places - such as in an airport or at work
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3. Loud noises are more irritating than they used to be
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4. Sounds seem unclear or people sound like they are mumbling
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5. Low-pitched voices seem easier to hear than high-pitched voices
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6. You hear ringing or buzzing sounds in your ears (called tinnitus)

How is age-related hearing loss treated?

The best treatment option for someone with age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) will depend on the person's overall health, age and the severity of the hearing loss.


The most common treatment for age-related hearing loss is hearing aids, but the treatment may also include using assistive devices and / or learning lip reading techniques.

 

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How can you protect your hearing as you age?

Since age-related hearing loss is irreversible, prevention is important. Below are some of the most effective ways to prevent it:

  • Avoid (or reduce exposure to) excessively loud noises
  • Avoid smoking
  • Seek treatment for hearing health conditions (such as ear infections)
  • Wear ear protection in loud environments (ear plugs, earmuffs)

Hearing loss

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Receiver-in-the-ear (RITE Hearing Aids)

One popular type of hearing aid is the RITE (Receiver-in-the-ear) model. 

  • Suited for mild to profound hearing loss
  • All components are housed behind the ear with a clear tube leading to an earpiece that fits inside your ear
  • Modern hearing devices are sleeker and slimmer than older versions and are great for people with dexterity challenges or visual impairment
  • While modern behind-the-ear models are very discreet, they are not as invisible as in-the-ear hearing aids
  • Feature powerful technology and typically have more feature options than in-the-ear hearing aids
Book a free trial Receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids
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In-the-ear

There are five types of in-the-ear hearing aids, ranging from the invisible-in-the-canal to the full shell in-the-ear hearing aid:

  • Suited for mild to severe hearing loss
  • The smallest hearing aid style is virtually invisible inside the ear
  • The full shell hearing aid style fits inside the outer bowl of the ear
  • All types are custom-made to suit the shape of your ear, ensuring optimal comfort and sound quality
  • Some models offer Bluetooth® technology so that you can stream sound from your phone, computer, or TV
Book a free trial In-the-ear hearing aids

Rechargeable hearing aids

Several hearing aid brands offer rechargeable hearing aid models. When you meet with one of our professionals, they can advise whether rechargeable hearing devices are a good fit for you. 

  • Rechargeable batteries are replaced every 4-5 years (on average)
  • Recharging is simple
  • Three to four hours of charge provides a full day's charge
  • Save money over time
  • All-day use
  • Environmentally friendly
Book a free trial Rechargeable hearing aids
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Invisible hearing aids

Modern hearing devices are more discreet than ever before. In fact, many hearing aids are practically invisible. Designed to be especially discreet, the smallest variants of in-the-ear hearing aids are placed inside the ear canal. Examples of these include:

  • Invisible-in-the-canal
  • Completely-in-the-canal
Book a free trial Invisible hearing aids
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Bluetooth® hearing aids

Bluetooth® hearing devices can be used for many activities by connecting remotely to the devices mentioned below, turning your hearing aids into a wireless headset.

  • Hear phone conversations more clearly
  • Listen to your favourite TV program at your own chosen volume setting
  • Listen to music and podcasts on your device
  • Enjoy better sound quality on video chats and TV programs
  • Benefit from phone apps designed for Bluetooth® hearing aids
Book a free trial Bluetooth® hearing aids

FAQ about age-related hearing loss

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  2. Hearing loss
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