Adult-Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) Practice Exam

Which type of hearing loss is common among older adults?

1. Conductive hearing loss

2. Sensorineural hearing loss

3. Central auditory processing disorder

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The most common type of hearing loss among older adults is sensorineural hearing loss, which is a result of aging-related changes in the inner ear or the auditory nerve. It is characterized by a decline in the ability to hear high-frequency sounds, which can affect communication and social interactions. Conductive hearing loss, although less prevalent in older adults, can occur due to factors such as earwax buildup or otitis media, but it is typically not as pervasive as sensorineural loss in this population. Central auditory processing disorder, which involves the brain's ability to process auditory information, can also appear in older adults but is less commonly recognized than the other two types of hearing loss. Given that conductive and central auditory processing disorders can indeed occur in older adults along with the more prevalent sensorineural hearing loss, the choice that encompasses all the possibilities is justified. Hence, acknowledging that all types of hearing loss can present in this age group demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the auditory challenges faced by older adults.