With Sarah Sheehan, Hidden Hearing Chief Audiologist
As we grow older, many of us notice subtle changes in how we hear the world around us. Age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, is a natural part of ageing. In Ireland, around one in twelve people experience hearing loss, rising to half of those over 70. Despite its prevalence, hearing loss still carries a stigma – yet it is one of the most manageable health conditions in older adults.
Presbycusis develops gradually, usually affecting both ears, and can begin as early as our 40s or 50s. The most common cause is the ageing process itself, but genetics, long-term exposure to loud noise, certain medical conditions, medications, and smoking can all play a role.
Common signs of age-related hearing loss include:
- Struggling to follow group conversations, especially in noisy settings
- People sounding like they are “mumbling”
- Needing to turn the TV volume up more often
- Finding some sounds uncomfortably loud or startling
- Difficulty hearing high-pitched voices compared to lower ones
- A constant ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears (tinnitus)
Tinnitus affects around 15–20% of people and is becoming increasingly common in younger adults. It is often caused by damage to the tiny hair cells in the inner ear and can range from temporary to persistent. While there is no cure, there are effective ways to manage tinnitus and reduce its impact on daily life.
The good news is there are many proactive steps we can take to protect our hearing as we age.
Top tips for protecting your hearing:
- Limit prolonged exposure to loud noises – we recommend “the 60/60 rule”: listening to music or audio at no more than 60% of maximum volume for a maximum of 60 minutes at a time
- Use ear protection such as earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones in loud environments
- Quit smoking to support overall ear health
- Have earwax removed professionally rather than attempting home remedies
- Seek prompt medical attention for ear infections or any hearing concerns
- Schedule regular hearing tests to monitor changes over time
Age-related hearing loss is common, but with early action and the right care, you can stay connected to the sounds and people you love. Addressing hearing loss promptly can improve communication, maintain independence, and reduce the risk of isolation, depression, and even cognitive decline.
At Hidden Hearing, we understand that everyone’s hearing is unique, which is why we take the time to learn what it means to you and tailor our care to your individual needs. We specialise exclusively in hearing healthcare, providing free hearing tests, expert consultations, and world-class hearing technology that is discreet, comfortable, and often life changing.
If you or a loved one has concerns about your hearing, visit hiddenhearing.ie, or call 1800 88 28 84 to arrange your free hearing test and consultation in your local Hidden Hearing clinic.
Hidden Hearing will be exhibiting at the Cork 50 Plus Show in the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork on the 26th & 27th of September. So come along and say hello.
