Hearing in the Elderly in Buddharaksa Moral Community: Understanding, Prevention and Care through Public Health Rights

This article examines age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) among the elderly, particularly in rural areas and within the Buddharaksa Moral Community. Presbycusis results from the gradual degeneration of the inner ear’s sensory cells, significantly affecting quality of life and social participation. The article discusses age-related symptom progression, diagnostic methods such as audiograms and tympanometry and interventions including hearing aids and auditory rehabilitation. It also highlights the accessibility of treatment under Thailand’s state welfare systems, including universal coverage, social security and civil servant benefits. Furthermore, community-level initiatives are proposed, such as annual hearing screenings, the use of amplification devices in community gatherings, and the promotion of “Voices of Wisdom” forums, enabling elderly individuals to remain active contributors of knowledge and moral values within society.