When a child is born they typically can only see approximately 8 to 12 inches in front of their face; however,
by the baby’s first birthday they typically have 20/20 vision. Vision improves quickly from birth and during
early childhood. Decline in eyesight causes a number of challenges. Two common diseases that affect vision are
glaucoma and macular degeneration. Glaucoma results from damage to the optic nerve causing an increase in fluid
pressure in the eye. This typically results in a loss of peripheral vision. Macular degeneration occurs from an
accumulation of cellular debris between the layers of the retina and results in a loss of sight in the center
field of vision.
Hearing loss is another common sensory change during aging. Approximately 50% of individuals in their mid-70s
have some discernable hearing loss. Hearing loss has been associated with depression and social isolation. It
can be difficult to join in social gatherings. Thankfully, technology has enabled improvement for those with
hearing loss which assists in social connectedness. One such piece of technology is the cochlear implant which
acts as a prosthetic substitute for the hair cells in the ear. Aging is a part of life and presents many different
challenges; however, there are many positive aspects to aging as well.