Hearing of Older Adults

Hearing Characteristics of Older Adults

Hearing gradually declines after the age of 20. As one ages, it becomes more difficult to hear high frequencies. As a result, sounds such as phone ringtones and thermometer beeps may become harder to hear, and they may sound muffled and unclear overall.
Additionally, sounds and words that are difficult for Older Adults to hear are said to belong to the categories of pa, ta, ka, and sa sounds.
Thus, as one ages and hearing becomes more difficult, communication with those around them can become challenging, and it may be harder to detect dangers, leading to feelings of isolation and anxiety, which can result in reduced social interaction.

Hearing Support for Older Adults

Understanding the hearing characteristics of Older Adults and slightly changing the way you speak can make it easier for them to hear. Let's try to keep the following in mind when speaking to them.

1. Speak slowly and clearly in a slightly louder voice, not a loud voice.
2. Clearly and distinctly pronounce the sounds of the P, T, K, and S rows.
3. Put in a strong effort and speak for a longer duration at the beginning of the conversation.
4. Speak clearly to the other person, showing your mouth movements from the front.

When you are worried about hearing

It is recommended to consult with an ear, nose, and throat specialist regarding hearing issues and to undergo necessary interviews and tests. Currently, there are no treatment methods to improve hearing loss due to aging, and hearing aids are used to supplement hearing. Consult with an ear, nose, and throat specialist about the use of hearing aids, and if necessary, have them help you with the appropriate selection and adjustment of hearing aids (medical institutions) and their peripheral devices. If you experience issues such as difficulty hearing or excessive noise, make sure to have continuous fine-tuning done.

Hearing aid costs are eligible for medical expense deductions

Starting from the fiscal year 2018, the cost of purchasing hearing aids has become eligible for Medical Expenses deductions. A consultation with a hearing aid specialist and the "Medical Information Provision Document for Hearing Aid Fitting (2018)" are required. For more details, please consult a hearing aid specialist or refer to the Japan Otolaryngology Society website.
Note: Those who hold a Physical Disability Certificate may be eligible for reimbursement of the purchase cost.

• Hearing Aid Consultation Doctor Directory [Japan Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Website] (External Link)
• To receive a tax deduction for medical expenses for hearing aid purchasers, visit the [Japan Society of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Website] (external link)
• Information on Hearing for Older Adults - Flyer (PDF 553.1KB)