As our family members age, specific changes in their health can be expected. One of the most prevalent issues they may face is hearing loss. According to 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, nearly half of them are having a difficult time hearing.
Diligently watching for indications of hearing loss is essential if you have an older 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 signs 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 yourself to your elderly family member? They might be having a difficult time hearing if you observe this common indication which will be particularly obvious when there is a lot of background noise.
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 indicate that they are straining to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges in conversations with new people
When meeting people for the first time, your loved one might have difficulty hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can lead to confusion and frustration.
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 truth they simply can’t hear.
Missing important sounds
It’s a sure sign of hearing loss if your family member doesn’t recognize essential sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Trouble with phone conversations
Many seniors with hearing loss find it particularly challenging to hear while talking on the phone, especially when there is background noise or if they are talking on a cell phone.
Avoidance of social settings
If your loved one starts avoiding social contact or withdrawing from activities they once loved, it might be because they feel embarrassed or left out due to their hearing problems.
Neglected hearing loss has a big impact
Hearing loss has a profound effect on social interaction, emotional well-being, and physical health. Depression, isolation, and cognitive decline are also negative consequences of neglected hearing loss. In order to help your loved one maintain their quality of life, you need to recognize the symptoms early and seek prompt treatment.
The role of hearing aids
Luckily, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can frequently be effectively treated 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 vital for the general health and well-being of older adults.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been related to untreated hearing loss by research performed by Johns Hopkins University. Regular use of hearing aids is an important step in caring for an older relative because hearing aids have been shown to prevent or even reverse many of these cognitive risks.
How you can help
If you believe that your loved one is coping with hearing loss, there are a number of ways you can assist. First, encourage them to consult a hearing specialist for a comprehensive hearing assessment. With your assistance, your loved one can explore various treatment possibilities, and that includes hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also a significant thing for your family member to do. Honesty about their hearing difficulties and a determination 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 considerable investment they present.
You can help your loved one get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and motivating them to address their hearing loss as soon as possible. This will allow them to reconnect with family and friends and enjoy the interactions that are so essential to their emotional and mental health. With your support and the proper hearing care, your family member can continue to live a fulfilling life.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your family member to get their hearing evaluated.