We can anticipate some particular health changes as our loved ones age. Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent of these health concerns. Around one out of every three people aged 65 to 74 copes with some level of hearing loss as disclosed by the National Institute of Health. This figure goes up considerably for those over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group battling to hear.
Diligently watching for signs of hearing loss is crucial 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 successful with early detection.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some key signs that your loved one may be experiencing hearing difficulties:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your loved one frequently ask you to repeat yourself? They might be having a hard time hearing if you notice this common sign which will be particularly obvious when there is a lot of background noise.
Increasing the volume to uncomfortable levels
They are probably having problems hearing at normal volume levels if they are continually setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for other people.
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 speaking clearly.
Miscommunication resulting in arguments
Hearing loss can often result in frequent arguments with friends or family because of miscommunication or the feeling that they aren’t listening, when in truth, they simply cannot hear well.
Missing essential sounds
It’s a sure sign of hearing loss if your loved one doesn’t recognize essential sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Trouble with phone conversations
Phone conversations can be especially difficult for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Avoidance of social situations
If your family member starts staying away from social interactions or withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, it could be because they feel embarrassed or left out due to their hearing difficulties.
The affect of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss has a profound impact on social engagement, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. Depression, isolation, and mental decline are also negative repercussions of neglected hearing loss. In order to help your family member preserve their quality of life, you need to identify the symptoms early and seek prompt treatment.
The role of hearing aids
Hearing aids can often effectively regulate hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. Seniors will be better able to continue to participate in their normal day-to-day activities by using one of these devices. Staying socially active with family, friends, and community is essential for the total health and well-being of older adults.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have correlated untreated hearing loss to cognitive decline, memory issues, and an increased danger of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Consistent 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?
If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, there are a number of ways you can help. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing assessment from a hearing specialist. Together, you can explore the available treatment options, including hearing aids.
It’s also essential for your loved one to be proactive about the health of their hearing. They have to be honest about their hearing difficulties and dedicated to wearing hearing aids as recommended. 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.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and motivating 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 well-being, and this will allow them to do just that. Your loved one will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the correct hearing care and your help.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your loved one to get their hearing assessed.
