Self-Perception of Hearing Abilities: The Role of Auditory Processing and Extended High-Frequency Hearing in Older Adults With Normal Hearing.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the self-reported listening abilities of older adults with clinically normal hearing and examined the role of auditory processing abilities and extended high-frequency thresholds in perceived challenges.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study used self-report questionnaires and objective measures, such as the dichotic digit test, gaps-in-noise test, and extended high-frequency audiometry. Fifty adults, including 25 younger adults (<30 years) and 25 older adults (≥50 years) with normal hearing thresholds, were included.

RESULTS

Older adults reported significantly more difficulties in spatial hearing, intelligibility in quiet and sound identification tasks compared to younger adults. Objective assessments revealed deficits in temporal resolution, binaural separation, and extended high-frequency thresholds in older individuals. Significant correlations were observed between extended high-frequency thresholds and auditory processing abilities. However, no correlation was found between extended high-frequency thresholds and self-reported listening difficulties.

CONCLUSIONS

Older adults with clinically normal hearing reported more listening difficulties and performed worse in auditory processing tasks than younger adults. Extended high-frequency thresholds were correlated with auditory processing abilities but not with self-reported difficulties. These findings indicate a relationship between age-related auditory changes and perceived listening difficulties, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive auditory assessment in older adults.