Which factors are primary risk factors for developing age-related hearing loss?

Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is commonly associated with two key factors: exposure to loud noises over time and advanced age. As individuals age, the hair cells in the inner ear gradually deteriorate, which can significantly impair hearing abilities. Additionally, lifelong exposure to noise—such as occupational noise, playing musical instruments, or attending loud events—can contribute to this deterioration. This combination of aging and noise exposure makes these two factors primary risk factors for developing age-related hearing loss.

While other factors can influence hearing loss, such as genetics or lifestyle choices, they do not have the same consistent and direct link to the gradual and inevitable changes in hearing related to aging and noise exposure. Therefore, the focus on exposure to loud noises and advanced age provides the most accurate understanding of the primary risk factors for this condition.