Which of the following is a common cause of interference in hearing for older adults?

Cerumen impaction is indeed a common cause of hearing interference in older adults. As individuals age, the consistency and volume of earwax can change, often leading to an accumulation that may cause blockage in the ear canal. This blockage can prevent sound waves from reaching the eardrum and result in a reduction in hearing ability.

This condition is particularly relevant in older adults because they may have more earwax than younger individuals and may also have reduced ability to clear it themselves, due to factors like decreased mobility or cognitive changes. Treating cerumen impaction typically involves professional cleaning or appropriate home care practices, which can restore hearing to a degree once the blockage is alleviated.

Other options, while relevant to hearing disturbances, are more chronic or progressive in nature. Otosclerosis refers to abnormal bone growth in the ear that can lead to hearing loss, but this is less prevalent than cerumen issues. Presbycusis is age-related hearing loss that occurs gradually over time and is often irreversible. Tinnitus involves the perception of noise or ringing in the ears and is typically a symptom of underlying conditions rather than a direct cause of hearing interference. Therefore, cerumen impaction is the most immediate and manageable cause among the options.