What is Presbycusis?
Presbycusis refers to the gradual decline in hearing that typically occurs in both ears as people age. It affects approximately one in three adults over the age of 65. Because the change in hearing is often subtle and progressive, it may go unnoticed for years.
Emerging evidence shows that untreated hearing loss may have broader implications, such as impacting cognitive health. If you or a loved one experiences difficulty hearing, consider discussing it with a registered hearing professional.
Hearing assessments are conducted by qualified audiologists and typically include:
Case history and discussion of hearing challenges
Visual ear examination using an otoscope
Pure-tone and speech testing to assess hearing sensitivity and clarity
Assessments are non-invasive, usually completed within an hour, and may be claimable from medical aids depending on your plan.
Where appropriate, the audiologist may recommend hearing technology based on the results. Various devices exist to support specific hearing needs. Patients may explore different hearing aid models and configurations during follow-up consultations.
Note: Clinical services are rendered by independent, HPCSA-registered audiologists. Any technology demonstrated or purchased should be guided by professional recommendation only. Free screenings or hearing aid demos, if available, are offered through affiliated retail channels and not part of the diagnostic service.
For information or to connect with a hearing care provider near you, click here.
Hearing evaluations are fundamental in understanding and addressing auditory health. Audiologists employ various tests to assess different aspects of hearing.
• Pure-tone audiometry involves measuring an individual's hearing sensitivity across different frequencies, helping identify the degree and nature of any hearing loss.
• Speech audiometry assesses one's ability to hear and understand speech. This evaluation provides insights into how well an individual can comprehend spoken language.
• Tympanometry is a test that examines the movement of the eardrum in response to changes in air pressure. This helps in identifying issues with the middle ear and assessing overall ear health.
Choosing and fitting hearing aids is a personalized process aimed at enhancing an individual's hearing experience.
• Selection of appropriate hearing aids involves considering factors such as the degree and type of hearing loss, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Audiologists guide individuals in choosing the most suitable device.
• Customized fittings ensure that hearing aids are comfortable and provide optimal performance. This involves tailoring the devices to fit the unique anatomy of each ear.
• Programming and adjustments are crucial for fine-tuning hearing aids. Audiologists use specialized software to adjust settings based on individual responses and feedback, optimizing hearing aid performance.
Audiologists offer essential services to address issues with malfunctioning hearing aids and ensure their longevity.
• Repair services include diagnosing and fixing problems with hearing aids. Whether it's a technical malfunction or physical damage, audiologists work to restore optimal functionality.
• Routine maintenance and cleaning are vital for preventing issues and maintaining the effectiveness of hearing aids. Regular check-ups help address any potential problems before they become major issues.
Tinnitus, characterized by ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears, can significantly impact quality of life. Audiologists provide comprehensive support.
• Evaluation and counseling involve identifying the underlying causes of tinnitus and developing personalized strategies to manage and alleviate symptoms. Counseling helps individuals cope with the emotional aspects of tinnitus.
For those exposed to loud environments or musicians looking to preserve their hearing, custom ear protection is a valuable service.
• Design and fitting of custom earplugs or earmolds involve creating personalized ear protection devices that offer a comfortable fit while effectively reducing noise exposure.
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