As seniors grow older, they frequently report experiencing sounds like ringing, buzzing, or whistling in their ears. These sounds, referred to as tinnitus, can trigger distress and confusion for many seniors. While getting older often brings about tinnitus, it must not be viewed as an inevitable byproduct of aging.
The presence of tinnitus often diminishes a person’s quality of life, but it is a mistake to assume there are no options for management. This guide covers how to differentiate age-linked tinnitus from other factors and outlines the next steps for those seeking support.
What Is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus occurs when a person hears internal sounds that do not originate from their environment. Although ringing and buzzing are the primary descriptions, the sound can also present as roaring, whistling, or clicking. The severity varies from a minor nuisance to a major disruption, and it may be felt in a single ear or both.
The National Library of Medicine reports the following statistics regarding the senior population:
- Tinnitus is experienced by about one in five seniors.
- Daily life is affected for 10% of older people suffering from tinnitus.
- Individuals with hearing loss were twice as likely to have tinnitus.
If it’s loud or doesn’t let up, tinnitus can lead to fatigue, depression, anxiety, and mental and emotional anguish. The good news is that no one has to manage these symptoms without professional help. But first, let’s examine the difference between age-related and non-age-related tinnitus.
Identifying Tinnitus Triggered by Aging
Presbycusis, or age-related hearing loss, stands as a primary driver of tinnitus among the elderly.
Common characteristics of age-linked tinnitus include:
- Develops slowly over time.
- Is experienced together with age-related hearing loss.
- Takes the form of persistent static.
- Frequently feels more intrusive in a quiet room.
Non-Age-Related Causes
Aging isn’t always the only factor, as many older individuals experience tinnitus due to environmental influences, such as:
- Noise damage earlier in life, including industrial labor, military duty, or music.
- Medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, aspirin, or specific antibiotics.
- Blood flow problems, including high blood pressure, that affect the ears.
- Simple earwax blockage, which is a common and treatable cause of ear noise.
The Impact of Ongoing Tinnitus
Yet, it is essential to realize that long-term tinnitus takes a toll on:
- Sleep hygiene.
- Concentration and memory.
- Overall emotional health.
- The general satisfaction you find in daily life.
Addressing Tinnitus: Steps for Older Adults
- The use of hearing aids, which can cover the ringing by enhancing environmental sounds.
- Sound masking or masking techniques.
- Working with a physician to change prescriptions that may be causing the noise.
- Adopting new habits that focus on stress reduction and better sleeping patterns.
Contact our staff of professionals today to make an appointment. Our staff is dedicated to supporting your auditory health.