We can anticipate some particular health changes as our family members age. One of the most common issues they may face is hearing loss. Around one out of three people aged 65 to 74 copes with some level of hearing loss as disclosed by the National Institute of Health. This figure increases substantially for individuals over 75, with almost half of all Americans in this age group battling to hear.
Diligently watching for indications of hearing loss is essential if you have an aging relative that you’re caring for. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing and improving their quality of life.
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:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your loved one frequently ask you to repeat what you’ve said? This is a common indication that they may not be hearing clearly, especially in situations with background noise or multiple speakers.
Increasing the volume to uncomfortable levels
They are probably having trouble hearing at normal volume levels if they are constantly setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for others.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
Frustrating misunderstandings can happen when your loved one meets someone but can’t hear them even when they’re talking clearly.
Miscommunication resulting in arguments
People with hearing loss often have tense relationships with family and friends because they are accused of “selective hearing” when in truth they simply can’t hear.
Important sounds are missed
If your loved one is not responding to essential sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is an obvious indication of hearing impairment.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Phone conversations can be especially challenging for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Social isolation
If your family member begins steering clear of social contact or withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, it could be because they feel embarrassed or left out as a result of their hearing difficulties.
The affect of neglected hearing loss
Hearing loss is not just a matter of weakened physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional health and social connection. Depression, solitude, and mental decline are also negative repercussions of neglected hearing loss. It’s essential to identify the indications early and get treatment to help your loved one preserve their quality of life.
The role of hearing aids
Hearing aids can often successfully manage hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. These devices can substantially improve the ability to hear and permit seniors to continue participating in their normal activities. The health and quality of life for an older person depend very much upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Memory problems, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been related to untreated hearing loss by research carried out by Johns Hopkins University. Regular use of hearing aids is an important step in taking care of an older relative because hearing aids have been shown to counter or even reverse many of these cognitive risks.
What’s your role?
You can assist a loved one dealing with hearing loss in a variety of ways. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing assessment from a hearing specialist. With your help, your family member can investigate various treatment possibilities, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also important for your loved one to be proactive about the health of their hearing. Honesty about their hearing difficulties and a willingness to use their hearing aids routinely is essential. Hearing aids are an essential part of the management of your loved one’s hearing health and are well worth the significant investment they present.
By addressing hearing loss early and assisting your loved one through the process, you can help them regain a vibrant social life. This will allow them to reconnect with friends and family and enjoy the interactions that are so essential to their emotional and mental health. Your loved one will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the correct hearing care and your support.
Call us today to take the first step in treating your loved one’s hearing loss.
