Hearing loss is a common issue among older adults that often goes unnoticed. Age-related physiological changes and exposure to loud noises can trigger partial or permanent hearing loss. However, there are proactive steps you can take to mitigate the effects of hearing loss in your golden years.

Avoid Loud Noises

People are exposed to voluntary and involuntary loud noises from various sources such as sirens, heavy machinery, and loud concerts. Prolonged exposure to loud noises exceeding 85 decibels can damage the nerve cells in your ears. Protecting your ears is critical as more people suffer permanent hearing damage from loud noises. Here are some ways to protect your ears:

• Use earplugs when operating loud machinery or attending loud concerts.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to loud noises exceeding 85 decibels.
• Use headphones for no more than one hour and take breaks to allow your ears to recover from exposure to noise.

Watch Out for Early Signs and Seek Medical Attention

If you often increase the volume on your devices, it could indicate early-stage hearing damage. It is essential to identify potentially dangerous hearing problems before they become irreversible. Annual hearing screening can help you detect early signs of hearing impairment. Hearing impairment can affect your overall health, including mental and brain function. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor whenever you notice any hearing issues.

Follow a Healthy Diet

Nutrition is linked to your hearing health, and a good diet is associated with reduced risks of hearing loss. Here are some nutrients that enhance your hearing capabilities:

• Potassium: regulates inner ear fluids, and since the levels drop with age, potassium-rich diets can prevent age-related hearing loss.
• Folic acid: enhances cell generation and circulation, essential for maintaining healthy hair cells in the ear.
• Magnesium, vitamins A, C, and E: provide protection from damage caused by loud noises. Magnesium acts as a protective barrier for the tiny hairs that trap loud noises.
• Deficiencies can lead to oxygen deprivation in the inner ear, making you prone to ear damage.
• Omega-3 fats: can also help prevent age-related hearing impairment by ensuring sufficient vascular tissues in the ear.

Endnote

Hearing loss can have serious effects on your emotional and mental well-being. While hereditary hearing loss may be unpreventable, you can mitigate some environmental risk factors by taking proactive steps to protect your hearing as you age. A decline in hearing abilities is common in old age, but staying alert can help delay or prevent the issues.