ABSTRACT
As humans age, there is a gradual dysfunction of nearly all organ systems. It is said that communication is both what the message is and the manner in which it is interpreted. Hearing is a key part of this communication in man. However, cochlear dysfunction is often an overlooked entity which can seriously affect the quality of life as one ages. It is estimated by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the USA that between 40 and 50 million Americans will experience a disorder of communication during their lifetime, the vast majority of which is hearing loss. While not completely debilitating, hearing problems may result in fear and anxiety, and may also bring up feelings of one’s own mortality and aging. This chapter is designed to give the physician a point of reference for diagnosis and treatment of hearing and balance disorders that are more common as one ages.
