Column: Dr Kozin On Ageing, Hearing & More
[Column written by Dr Elliott Kozin]
As we all know, Bermuda is a remarkable place – but one of the more interesting ways the island is setting itself apart is as one of the fastest-ageing populations in the world.
With a median age of 46 [according to the UN], which compares unfavourably with the United States’ median age of 38.5. In a similar vein: Bermuda’s death rate has exceeded the birth rate for a number of years now, beginning in 2017/18. As populations age, we must talk not only about living longer but also living well – and hearing health plays a crucial part in that.
Generally, hearing loss typically occurs due to ageing in your 40s and 50s. It can occur earlier in life if there is a history of noise exposure, such as from work or leisure activities.
As you age, your hearing typically diminishes in both ears. This is usually due to ageing, noise exposure and genetics. When we first lose hearing, one may notice difficulty hearing in noisy environments or locating where sound is coming from. Combined with generally cognitive changes with ageing, hearing loss can have a major impact on quality of life.
Hearing protection is the main way to preserve hearing. Usually this means wearing good quality ear buds if in a loud environment or avoiding excessively noisy places altogether. Hearing protection is simple, inexpensive and one of the most effective ways to reduce future hearing problems.
Hearing is a major component of human communication. If hearing is diminished it can make it difficult to understand what others are saying. This can lead to miscommunication and potentially social isolation. It is also exhausting having a hearing impairment, as one needs to work extra hard to communication. This additional fatigue can impact one’s quality of life.
There have been several studies that show hearing loss is associated with cognitive decline. It does not mean that hearing loss causes cognitive decline, but those with hearing loss also have cognitive issues. It may be tied to dementia through other factors, such as social isolation or depression.
The best way to manage hearing loss is to have a formal hearing test and use hearing aids if there is evidence of hearing decline. Hearing aids can be used to hear better, as well as decrease the effort needed to listen, reducing strain and fatigue.
I’m pleased to share that on 22 October, I will be joining a team from Mass General Brigham at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute for a Continuing Medical Education event, Sound Beginnings to Lifelong Hearing. It is free and open to all on-island healthcare professionals. If you work in healthcare, I encourage you to register and join us for this important conversation on hearing health across all stages of life. As a bonus, we will be enjoying networking and a dinner from Harbourfront Restaurant.
You can register online here.
- Dr Elliott Kozin, Otologist/Neurotologist at Mass Eye and Ear, Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology at Harvard Medical School
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