We often hear about the challenges of aging boomers and those in their 80s, but one crisis gets overlooked: hearing loss in people over 90. However, research from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden has examined the hearing health of 91 participants aged 90 and over— and the effects of hearing loss on their lives.
Why it matters
Untreated hearing loss in people over 90 is a growing concern because it substantially increases the odds of isolation, depression, dementia, and falling. They're often in residential care and their hearing health is typically overlooked (or misdiagnosed), leaving them without the necessary support.
A difficult truth
The study revealed a disturbing reality: every single participant exhibited hearing loss.
- 80% had hearing loss and needed hearing aids.
- 30% had occluding earwax, further hindering their hearing and making hearing aids more difficult.
A closer look
The researchers recruited participants from various settings, including ones with severe illness or those living in residential care. This ensured a more representative sample than previous studies that excluded this population.
- The researchers used standardized hearing tests, which are rarely used for this age group. The tests were conducted in the participants' homes for maximum accessibility.
- While men 65–79 experience more hearing loss than women**, this difference is significantly less in those over 90.
Recommendations
- Screen the hearing of people over 90.
- Use hearing aids to improve the quality of their lives.
- Improve hearing aid controls to accommodate less dexterity.
- Improve the acoustic properties of residential care centers to improve hearing.
In a nutshell
Public health policies, residential care facilities, and caregivers must acknowledge and address hearing loss in those over 90. This growing population needs relevant support to improve their well-being.
Concerned about a loved one's hearing loss?
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Don't let untreated hearing loss rob them of their health and happiness.
