Who cares if barn owls retain their excellent hearing ability well into old age? We all should. Our ability to hear relies on small sensory cells in the inner ear, called “hair cells,” that convert sound vibration into electrical signals that are then sent to the brain. Unfortunately, when these hair cells become damaged due to loud noise, aging or disease, they do not grow back. As a result, hearing is permanently lost. However, owls and other birds are able to regenerate hair cells, which helps them retain their hearing ability. If further research leads to the discovery of the mechanism by which barn owls replace dead hair cells, it may lead to new treatments for hearing loss in humans. Research and technology continue to work toward enhancing the quality of life for people with hearing loss.
We are doing our part by providing comprehensive hearing evaluations coupled with the most advanced, comfortable and dependable hearing instruments on the market today. To schedule a consultation, please call Accura Audiology at 716-633- 0721. Better Hearing is Better Living is located at our Williamsville, Cheektowaga and Lockport locations.