We can anticipate some specific health changes as our loved ones age. One of the most common problems they might encounter is hearing loss. Around one out of three people aged 65 to 74 copes with some level of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. This figure increases significantly for people over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
If you’re taking care of a parent, grandparent, or elderly relative, it’s essential to remain vigilant for indicators of hearing loss. 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 indicators that your loved one may be experiencing hearing difficulties:
Asking people to repeat themselves
Does your loved one frequently ask you to repeat what you’ve said? This is a common sign that they may not be hearing clearly, especially in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Increasing 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 reveal that they are struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges in conversations with new people
Frustrating misunderstandings can occur when your family member meets someone but can’t hear them even when they’re talking clearly.
Miscommunication resulting in arguments
Hearing loss can often lead to frequent quarrels with friends or family because of miscommunication or the feeling that they are not listening, when in truth, they simply cannot hear well.
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 a clear indication of hearing loss.
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 may feel self-conscious about their hearing problems causing them to remove themselves from social contact and frequently seclude themselves.
The impact of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss is not just a question of weakened physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional well-being and social connection. Neglected hearing loss can result in solitude, depression, and a decline in cognitive function. In order to help your loved one preserve their quality of life, you need to identify the symptoms early and seek prompt treatment.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
Hearing aids can often successfully regulate hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss. These devices can substantially improve the ability to hear and allow seniors to continue participating in their normal activities. Staying socially active with family, friends, and community is essential for the total health and well-being of older adults.
Memory problems, 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 disciplined use of hearing aids has been shown to counter or prevent many of these cognitive issues, making it a critical step in taking care of an aging parent or relative.
How you can help
If you believe that your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, there are a number of ways you can assist. First, motivate them to consult a hearing specialist for a comprehensive hearing test. With your assistance, your loved one can explore a variety of treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also an essential thing for your family member to do. They must 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 substantial investment they present.
By dealing with hearing loss early and assisting your loved one through the process, you can help them restore a vibrant social life. Connecting with friends and loved ones and enjoying social interactions is essential to their mental and emotional health, and this will permit them to do just that. Your family member will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the proper hearing care and your help.
Contact us to make an appointment for your loved one to get their hearing evaluated.