Page 104 - LCNL Raghuvanshi 2024

100 Raghuvanshi 2024 - 2025 Happy Diwali

Hearing Loss in the elderly population and Hearing Aids

by Professor Bhik Kotecha

Hearing impairment or hearing loss is a fairly common problem especially as we
get older. Hearing loss is generally considered as a hidden disability as nothing
obvious is visible in the form of symptoms. Age related hearing degeneration which is
irreversible, usually happens very gradually when we are in our 50’s or 60’s and it may
take some time to appreciate that one has hearing impairment. Unfortunately, as we
age, the inner ear starts degenerating and leads to hearing loss. Factors that may
exacerbate the process include genetic inheritance and exposure to loud noises such
as working with machinery, rifle-shooting, pneumatic drilling etc.

Signs of gradual hearing loss
The common signs that you might have hearing loss:
• turning the TV up louder than others want it
• finding it hard to follow conversation in noisy background
• struggling to hear on the phone
• often asking people to repeat things
• having your family members complain that you don’t listen to them
• feeling that other people mumble

If you are experiencing hearing loss and have any of the above symptoms then it is prudent to get
your hearing assessed. Your GP can help arrange this through the NHS or you may even find a private
hearing aid dispenser offering hearing tests and hearing aids if necessary.

The solution to overcome age related hearing loss is to use hearing aid. There isn’t any medication
or surgery that will address this issue. However, in very severe hearing loss that cannot be aided by
hearing aids, cochlear implant surgery may help.

Not using hearing aids can have a number of detrimental effects on your health and social life,
including:
• Cognitive decline: Hearing loss can contribute to brain atrophy, and hearing aids can help slow this
decline. There is now some scientific evidence to show dementia is more common if

• Social isolation: Hearing loss can make it harder to communicate and connect with others, which
can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

• Professional disadvantage: Not being able to hear fully can put you at a disadvantage in
professional settings.
Your GP can refer you for a free NHS hearing aid which currently are digital and very effective. The
latest digital hearing aids are equipped with automatic features that can adjust the volume and
programming for improved hearing in different environments. Hearing aid technology is advancing
and smaller in the ear-canal hearing aids are available but these may not be suitable for all types of
hearing loss. There is also facility to evaluate speech clarity with newer technology in particular with
the latest digital technology.

While scientists haven’t yet found a way to prevent age-related hearing loss, there are steps you can
take to protect your hearing such as avoiding loud noises or protect your ears by wearing ear plugs or
headphones or limiting the time spent in noisy environment.

So if you are struggling with your hearing then please seek help. If going for a hearing aid privately,
then please ensure you are going to get after-sales service and a 90 day return policy if not satisfied.

Wishing you all a very happy, peaceful and healthy Diwali!
Prof. Bhik Kotecha