Here’s a question from my postbag today.
Is it inevitable for one’s hearing function to decline as they age, and if so, is there any way to slow down the progression?
It’s not absolutely inevitable, no. It’s just very likely!
There are lots of factors and “wear and tear” is just one. Genetic predisposition, so if your parent/sibling has wear and tear loss you are more likely to get it.
Noise exposure is another factor, one which you can guard against yourself.
Certain drugs and treatments such as platin chemotherapy and aminoglycoside antibiotics (these are known risks and normally only given if needed). Diabetes should be avoided or controlled with medication to prevent damage.
The wear and tear on the ears is inevitable, it’s just part of being human. How much/how fast it affects you is outside your control. Be good to your ears where you have control, but generally just enjoy your hearing as long as you have it, and aid it promptly if/when it starts to decline.