As our loved ones get older, certain changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most common problems they might encounter is hearing loss. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately one in three individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from some level of hearing loss. This number increases significantly for individuals over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
If you’re caring for a parent, grandparent, or elderly relative, it’s important to stay vigilant for signs of hearing loss. Early detection can make a substantial difference in managing and improving their quality of life.
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:
Frequent requests for repetition
Do you frequently need to repeat what you said to your elderly family member? They may be having a difficult time hearing if you notice this common sign which will be particularly evident 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 constantly setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for others.
Trouble talking to others
Frustrating misunderstandings can happen when your loved one meets someone but can’t hear them even when they are speaking clearly.
Arguments because of miscommunication
Hearing loss can often lead to regular arguments with friends or family due to miscommunication or the perception that they are not listening, when in reality, they simply cannot hear well.
Missing important sounds
It’s a definite sign of hearing loss if your loved one doesn’t notice crucial sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Many seniors who have hearing loss find it particularly difficult 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 situations
If your loved one starts avoiding social contact or withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, it might be because they feel embarrassed or left out due to their hearing problems.
The affect of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss has a powerful effect on social engagement, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. Neglected hearing loss can result in solitude, depression, and a decrease in cognitive function. In order to help your family member preserve their quality of life, you need to recognize the symptoms early and seek prompt treatment.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
Hearing aids can often successfully manage hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. These devices can considerably 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 overall 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. Consistent use of hearing aids is an essential step in caring for 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 going through hearing loss in several ways. First, motivate them to see a hearing specialist for a comprehensive hearing test. Together, you can explore the available treatment possibilities, 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 supporting them and encouraging them to address their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and relatives and enjoying social interactions is essential to their mental and emotional health, and this will allow them to do just that. Your loved one will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the proper hearing care and your support.
Contact us to make an appointment for your family member to get their hearing tested.