As our loved ones age, certain changes in their health can be expected. Hearing loss is one of the most predominant of these health concerns. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, around one in three individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from some degree of hearing loss. And for people who are older than 75, almost half of them are having a tough time hearing.
Diligently watching for signs of hearing loss is essential if you have an aging relative that you’re caring for. Their quality of life can be enhanced and managing the symptoms will be more effective with early diagnosis.
What are the indications of hearing loss in seniors?
Your loved one may be suffering from hearing loss if you notice any of the following signs:
Asking people to repeat what they said
Do you regularly need to repeat what you said to your elderly family member? This is a common sign that they may not be hearing clearly, especially in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Boosting the volume to uncomfortable levels
If they constantly turn up the TV or radio volume so high that it’s uncomfortably loud for others, it could suggest that they are straining to hear at normal volumes.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
Frustrating misunderstandings can happen when your family member meets someone but can’t hear them even when they are speaking clearly.
Disputes because of miscommunication
Individuals with hearing loss frequently have tense relationships with family and friends because they are accused of “selective hearing” when in reality they simply can’t hear.
Essential sounds are missed
If your family member isn’t responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is an obvious sign of hearing loss.
Trouble with phone conversations
Many seniors with hearing loss find it particularly difficult to hear during phone conversations, especially when there is background noise or if they are using a cell phone.
Social solitude
Your loved one may feel embarrassed about their hearing problems causing them to remove themselves from social interactions and frequently seclude themselves.
The impact of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss is not just an issue of weakened physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional well-being and social connection. Depression, isolation, and cognitive decline are also negative repercussions of disregarded hearing loss. In order to help your loved one maintain their quality of life, you need to identify the symptoms early and seek prompt treatment.
The role of hearing aids
Luckily, hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss, can often be effectively managed with the use of hearing aids. These devices can substantially improve the ability to hear and permit seniors to continue participating in their normal activities. Remaining socially active with family, friends, and community is essential for the overall health and well-being of older adults.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been related to neglected hearing loss by research carried out by Johns Hopkins University. However, the consistent use of hearing aids has been shown to reverse or prevent many of these cognitive issues, making it a critical step in caring for an aging parent or relative.
How you can help
If you believe that your loved one is coping with hearing loss, there are several ways you can assist. The first thing you should do is to encourage them to get a hearing assessment from a hearing specialist. With your help, your family member can investigate various treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also important for your loved one to be proactive about their hearing health. They must be honest about their hearing difficulties and committed to using hearing aids as recommended. While hearing aids are a substantial investment, they are essential for maintaining your loved one’s total health and happiness.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and encouraging them to address their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and loved ones and enjoying social interactions is vital to their mental and emotional health, and this will allow them to do just that. Your family member will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the proper hearing care and your support.
Contact us to make an appointment for your family member to get their hearing tested.