Most of us take our hearing for granted. It is too easy to be blase about its role in bringing us pleasure and keeping us safe--at least until we experience some loss of acuity. It is estimated that, in our part of the world, approximately one-third of those ages 65 to 75 and more than half of those over age 75 have some degree of hearing loss.
Some signs of that diminution are easily recognized: such as favouring one ear over the other or increasing difficulty in understanding what others are saying. Other signs, especially those that develop gradually, like listening to TV or radio at high volume can come as a surprise. In any event, the loss can be anything from irritating to downright hazardous.
There are two primary types of hearing loss. The most common (sensorineural) is that caused by damage to the tiny hair cells of the inner ear, usually due to aging or prolonged exposure to excessive noise. A proper hearing aid can maximize the efficiency of any remaining intact hair cells. The other type is conductive, involving the outer and/or middle ear, and occurs when the transmission of sound is impeded, for example by impacted ear wax or infection.
The first device that functioned as a hearing aid was the ear trumpet, in use since the early 1600s. They were still produced commercially as late as 1963. We've come a long way since then. Recent advances include wireless hearing aids and FM listening systems that address the problem of background noise.
On Thursday, June 21, Cates Pharmacy is hosting a complimentary hearing screening clinic for adults over 55 conducted by a certified audiologist from Connect Hearing. Space is limited, so please book early.
BUD MASSENDER
CATES PHARMACY
