Auditory sensations, such as ringing, humming, or static, are prevalent issues among the senior demographic. For many older people, the experience of tinnitus can interfere with their mental clarity and create a sense of disorientation. While tinnitus is more common in later life, not all cases in older adults are simply “age-related,” and recognizing the difference is essential.
The presence of tinnitus often diminishes a person’s quality of life, but it is a mistake to believe there are no available paths for management. In this guide, we will examine the differences between age-related and non-age-related triggers, along with actionable steps for managing tinnitus.
Defining Tinnitus: What You Need to Know
The clinical description of tinnitus is hearing sound when no actual external noise is present. Individuals often describe the sound as a ringing noise, though hissing, buzzing, or roaring are also common. It can be steady or sporadic, affect one or both ears, and range from mildly annoying to highly disruptive.
According to the National Library of Medicine, in a general elderly population:
- 1 in 5 people has tinnitus.
- For ten percent of people, tinnitus disrupts daily life.
- There is a strong correlation showing that those with hearing loss have a twofold increase in the risk of tinnitus reports.
When the noise is intrusive or constant, it can result in mental health challenges such as fatigue and severe anxiety. The good news is that no one has to manage these symptoms without professional help. To begin, let’s explore how to tell if your tinnitus is strictly related to getting older.
When Tinnitus Is Age-Related
One of the primary drivers of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, clinically referred to as presbycusis.
When aging is the primary cause, the tinnitus typically:
- Manifests as a progressive onset.
- Occurs in conjunction with hearing loss.
- Sounds like sharp whistling or static.
- Is easier to detect when the surroundings are silent.
Non-Age-Related Triggers
Aging isn’t always the only factor, as many seniors experience tinnitus due to environmental influences, such as:
- Past contact with intense sound from machinery or military environments.
- Ototoxic medications, such as certain specialized pharmaceuticals.
- Heart-related health issues, such as hypertension or other vascular disorders.
- Earwax buildup, which is frequently seen in advancing age.
The Impact of Ongoing Tinnitus
Yet, it is essential to realize that chronic tinnitus influences:
- Sleep quality.
- Cognitive functions such as memory retention and daily attention.
- Mood and anxiety levels.
- The general satisfaction you find in daily life.
Managing Tinnitus: Steps for Seniors
- Hearing aids, which often reduce tinnitus by enhancing sound input.
- Employing sound machines or ambient sound to help mask the internal sounds.
- Working with a doctor to adjust prescriptions that may be causing the noise.
- Lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress and improve sleep.
Contact our staff of specialists today to make an appointment. We’re ready to help.