As our loved ones age, certain changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most common problems they might encounter is hearing loss. Around one out of three individuals aged 65 to 74 copes with some level of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. This figure increases considerably for those over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Diligently watching for signs of hearing loss is important if you have an aging relative that you’re taking care of. Their quality of life can be enhanced and managing the symptoms will be more effective with early detection.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some key indicators that your loved one may be experiencing hearing problems:
Frequent requests for repetition
Do you regularly need to repeat what you said to your elderly loved one? This is a common indication that they might not be hearing clearly, particularly in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Cranking the volume up
They are most likely having trouble hearing at normal volume levels if they are continually setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for other people.
Challenges in conversations with new people
Frustrating confusion can occur when your loved one meets someone but can’t hear them even when they’re talking clearly.
Disputes because of miscommunication
Hearing loss can often result in frequent quarrels with friends or family due to miscommunication or the feeling that they are not listening, when in truth, they simply cannot hear well.
Important sounds are missed
If your loved one isn’t responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is an obvious indication of hearing impairment.
Trouble with phone conversations
Phone conversations can be particularly challenging for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Avoidance of social situations
Your loved one might feel self-conscious about their hearing problems causing them to remove themselves from social contact and frequently seclude themselves.
Neglected hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss has a profound effect on social engagement, emotional well-being, and physical health. Untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation, depression, and a decrease in mental function. 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
Fortunately, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can frequently be successfully treated with the use of hearing aids. These devices can significantly improve the ability to hear and permit seniors to continue participating in their normal activities. Staying socially active with family, friends, and community is vital for the total health and well-being of older adults.
Memory problems, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of dementia have all been linked 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 stop many of these cognitive issues, making it an essential step in taking care of an older parent or relative.
How you can help
You can help a loved one going through hearing loss in a number of ways. The first thing you should do is to encourage them to get a hearing exam from a hearing specialist. With your help, your loved one can investigate various treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also an important thing for your family member to do. They have to be honest about their hearing difficulties and committed to using hearing aids as recommended. Hearing aids are a crucial part of the management of your loved one’s hearing health and are well worth the significant investment they present.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and encouraging them to deal with their hearing loss as soon as possible. This will enable them to reconnect with friends and family and enjoy the relationships that are so essential to their emotional and mental well-being. With your support and the right hearing care, your family member can continue to lead a fulfilling life.
Contact us to make an appointment for your loved one to get their hearing tested.