Dr. Mrugala said age related hearing loss is referred to as presbycusis.  No one knows why it happens but 50% of people over the age of 65 have some degrees of age related hearing loss.  Sound is important.  He then started to explain how sound works and the anatomy of the ear.  Typically, as one gets older, hearing loss is experienced at higher frequency sounds such as birds chirping or whispering.  Most people can still hear vowel sounds but lose the high frequency consonants that carry the meaning of the word.  Why does this matter?  Hearing loss can be an early marker for age related dementia.  Hearing loss can be correlated to a decrease of cognitive function.  Older adults who were treated can prevent/decrease the severity of dementia.  The number one way to treat hearing loss is to have a hearing aid.  It is best to go to an audiologist for hearing testing and a hearing aid fitting because it will then be customized to you.   One pitfall of hearing aids is the cost as they can cost up to $4000 a piece. Medicare Part B will cover 80% of testing but after that, each insurance differs as to coverage for the hearing aid.  Dr. Mrugala recommends a hearing test every 3 years for older adults.  

 

After Dr. Mrugala's presentation, he opened the floor for questions.  Someone asked about fitness in older adults.  He said that fitness programs can help all sorts of problems and that 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity is recommended.  He also mentioned that the Wellness Center at St. Joseph's/Candler is an excellent resource for exercise.