Presbycusis or “age-related hearing loss (ARHL)” (Huang & Tang, 2010) is a hearing loss that is believed to be caused by combined effects of aging cell degeneration in the auditory system and noise exposure over time. (Niparko, J.K., 2010) Presbycusis may also result due to genetic factors, preexisting disorders of the ear, or presence of ototoxic elements. (Gates & Mills, 2005) Presbycusis is a growing concern for the elderly society, as it greatly effects communication. This deficit may create difficulties in “physical, cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and social function” (Huang & Tang, 2010) aspects of life for the elderly. Upon examining a patient with presbycusis, the most typical results display “bilateral, symmetrical sensorineural hearing loss affecting the higher frequencies, particularly 2,000-8,000 Hz.” (DeBonis, D., & Donohue, C., 2008) Patients with presbycusis often feel that speakers are mumbling in conversation. This is a frequent complaint of presbycusis patients due to higher frequency speech sounds (such as certain consonant sounds) being …show more content…
By the year 2050, this amount is expected to triple. With modern medicine constantly advancing, people are living longer today than ever before in history. These facts are of the utmost importance because healthcare professionals must make accommodations for the growing elderly community. Successful treatment for mild- to moderate- hearing loss associated with presbycusis is heavily dependent of the individual patient. Patients should be properly fitted to their hearing amplification instrument and exhibit a determination to regain full communicational competency and also learn how to properly adjust and maintain their device. (Sprinzl, G.M. & Riechelmann, H.,