You may notice your hearing isn’t as sharp as it once was. Sounds might seem quieter, or harder to make out, especially in busy or noisy spaces.
Hearing changes are a normal part of getting older. But they don’t affect everyone in the same way. For some people, changes happen slowly over time. For others, they may start earlier or feel more noticeable.
Hearing can also be affected by things like loud noise, infections, injury or family history.
How hearing changes over time
Your ears are made up of small, delicate parts that work together to help you hear. Over time, these parts can become less sensitive.
Hearing changes often happen gradually. This can make them easy to miss at first.
You might notice:
- People seem to mumble or speak less clearly
- High-pitched sounds are harder to hear
- Conversations are harder to follow, especially with background noise
It can feel frustrating, and sometimes a little isolating, when you can’t hear as easily as you used to. You might even find yourself avoiding social situations.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and support is available. The best first step is to talk with an audiologist.
There are several organisations and charities that support New Zealanders with information and advice on hearing loss. We have added links below to some trusted organisations.
Age-related hearing loss (presbycusis)
Age-related hearing loss is very common. It’s called presbycusis.
Presbycusis is a sensorineural hearing disorder that can often be managed with hearing aids. Some of the symptoms include:
- Hearing other people’s speech as mumbled or slurred
- Having difficulty telling apart high-pitched sounds such as ‘th’ or ‘s’
- Struggling to understand or follow conversations, especially in noisy environments
- Finding it easier to hear or understand a man’s voice compared to a woman’s
- Finding some sounds too loud or annoying
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
These changes can happen slowly. That’s why it can take time to recognise them.
Presbycusis is caused by the natural ageing deterioration of the auditory system. Hearing is lessened by the loss of nerve hair cells in the cochlea. Some people may be more prone to developing worse presbycusis or having earlier onset. Factors triggering this may include:
- Hereditary aspects
- Environmental factors, such as repeated exposure to loud noises
- Smoking and alcohol
- Some medications
- Illnesses such as meningitis or untreated ear infections
- Physical trauma that damages the ear
If you’re concerned about your hearing, it’s worth getting it checked. An audiologist can assess your hearing and talk through what might help.
For many people, hearing aids make a big difference. They are fitted to match your hearing needs and can separate background noise and amplify voices close to you.
Wearing hearing aids often becomes part of your daily routine, much like wearing glasses.
There are different types available, including:
- Behind-the-ear
- In-the-ear
- Bone-anchored hearing aids
If hearing loss is more severe, other options may include implants or learning communication techniques like lip reading or sign language.
If you’re unsure where to start, a conversation with your GP or an audiologist is a good first step.
Hearing aids can feel like a big investment, but support may be available.
In New Zealand,
- Some people qualify for funding through the Disability Support Services
- ACC or Veterans’ Affairs NZ may provide funding in some cases
- Some audiologists offer discounts for SuperGold card holders
- Health insurance may cover part of the cost
You’ll find links below to more information and advice on hearing loss.
Protecting your hearing
While some hearing changes are part of ageing, you can still take steps to protect your hearing.
It helps to:
- Avoid long exposure to loud noises
- Use ear protection around machinery, tools, or firearms
- Keep volume levels at a comfortable level
Looking after your hearing now can help reduce further loss over time.
Ménière’s disease
You might also have heard about Ménière’s disease, which affects the inner ear.
It can cause:
- Dizziness (vertigo)
- Hearing loss
- Ringing in the ears
It is caused by the improper drainage of fluid in the ear, abnormal immune response, viral infection, or genetic predisposition. It often begins earlier in adulthood and can’t be cured, but symptoms can be managed.
If you experience these symptoms, it’s important to talk with your doctor. They may suggest medication or refer you to a specialist for further support.
