Hearing loss
One contributing factor to social isolation among elderly individuals is age-related hearing loss. The risk of hearing loss increases with age due to the non-regenerative nature of the hair cells in the ear responsible for hearing. As age increases, these hair cells will continue to be irreversibly damaged therefore causing hearing loss. Hearing loss, particularly in older adults, is associated with the inability to effectively communicate, which can lead to social isolation. Hearing loss can also make it difficult to maintain interpersonal relationships, which can result in social isolation. Hearing loss and loneliness have also shown associations. One Dutch study demonstrated a seven percent increase in odds of developing loneliness for each one decibel drop in sound perception in adults under 70 years old.