How does aging typically affect the sensory system?

The decline in the ability to hear as individuals age is a well-documented phenomenon known as presbycusis. This condition primarily affects the ability to hear high-frequency sounds and typically results from changes within the inner ear structures, as well as the auditory pathways in the brain. As people age, they may experience difficulty in distinguishing consonants from vowels, which can impact communication and social interaction.

Aging can also be associated with other sensory changes, but in this case, the decline in hearing is especially significant. It is not uncommon for older adults to find that they need to increase the volume on televisions or struggle to follow conversations in noisy environments, further emphasizing the impact of aging on auditory perception. This understanding assists caregivers and health professionals in tailoring their approaches to communication and interaction with older adults.