Presbyacusis: VI. Masking Of Speech

Abstract

The effect of age on discrimination of masked speech was studied in white noise at four masking levels, the SIN ratios being + 22, +12, + 2 and -3 dB. Discrimination of masked speech fell as a function of age, the first significant differences from normal being obtained after 40 years of age using S/N ratios of +22 and +12 dB. The age groups over 50 years differed significantly from normal at all levels of noise. The discrimination scores decreased progressively when low S/N ratios were used and with advancing age. No significant differences appeared between the right and left ears.