Many older adults notice ongoing humming, whistling, or ringing sounds that don’t have an external source. These sounds, known as tinnitus, can cause distress and confusion for many seniors. Although the frequency of tinnitus increases with advancing age, it is vital to understand that not every case is a direct result of the aging process.

Tinnitus can interrupt and compromise your quality of life, and you don’t have to simply accept it as a requirement of growing older. Today, we’re taking a look at what’s age-related, what isn’t, and available steps if you have tinnitus.

Defining Tinnitus: What You Need to Know

The medical definition of tinnitus is hearing sound when no actual external noise is present. Although ringing and buzzing are the most frequent descriptions, the sound can also manifest as hissing, roaring, or static. It can be constant or intermittent, affect one or both ears, and range from mildly annoying to highly disruptive.

The National Library of Medicine reports the following statistics regarding the senior population:

• Tinnitus is present in about one in five seniors.
• 1 in 10 of those affected find that tinnitus significantly disrupts their day-to-day activities.
• There is a strong correlation showing that those with hearing loss have a twofold increase in the risk of tinnitus reports.

When the noise is intrusive or constant, it can result in mental health challenges such as fatigue and severe anxiety. Luckily, there is support available. But first, let’s examine the difference between age-related and non-age-related tinnitus.

Identifying Tinnitus Caused by Aging

One of the primary drivers of tinnitus in seniors is age-related hearing loss, clinically referred to as presbycusis.

Common characteristics of age-linked tinnitus include:

• Manifests as a progressive onset.
• Occurs alongside hearing loss.
• Takes the form of constant high-pitched ringing.
• Frequently feels more intrusive in a quiet room.

Non-Age-Related Triggers

While age-related changes are a factor, many cases of tinnitus in older adults are linked to other triggers, including:

• Noise exposure earlier in life, including military service, factory work, or loud concerts.
• The use of specific drugs, including high-dose aspirin or intensive antibiotics.
• Circulatory health issues, such as high blood pressure or other vascular disorders.
• An excess of earwax, a condition occurring regularly with advancing age.

Why Tinnitus Must Not Be Dismissed

Yet, it is essential to realize that long-term tinnitus influences:

• Sleep hygiene.
• Your daily focus and recall of important information.
• Mood and anxiety levels.
• Overall quality of life.

Managing Tinnitus: Steps for Older Adults

• Utilizing hearing aids to provide the brain with increased auditory stimulation and reduce tinnitus focus.
• Employing sound machines or white noise to help mask the internal noises.
• Modifying prescriptions (when appropriate).
• Implementing new habits that focus on stress reduction and better sleeping patterns.

Get in touch with our clinical staff today to book your comprehensive evaluation. We’re here to help.