We can anticipate some specific health changes as our family members get older. One of the most prevalent issues they might encounter is hearing loss. Around one out of three individuals aged 65 to 74 deals with some degree of hearing loss as disclosed by the National Institute of Health. This figure goes up significantly for people over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group battling to hear.
Vigilantly watching for indications of hearing loss is important if you have an older relative that you’re taking care of. Their quality of life can be improved and managing the symptoms will be more successful with early diagnosis.
How will you know if a senior has hearing loss?
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 what you said to your elderly loved one? They may be having a difficult time hearing if you notice this common sign which will be particularly obvious when there is a lot of background noise.
Boosting the volume to uncomfortable levels
If they consistently turn up the TV or radio volume to levels that are uncomfortably loud for others, it could suggest that they are straining to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges in conversations with new people
When meeting someone for the first time, your family member may have trouble hearing even when the person is talking clearly. This can lead to confusion and frustration.
Miscommunication leading to arguments
Hearing loss can frequently result in regular quarrels 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
If your family member isn’t responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is an obvious indication of hearing impairment.
Trouble with phone conversations
Phone conversations can be especially difficult for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Social solitude
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 due to their hearing difficulties.
The impact of neglected hearing loss
Hearing loss is not just a matter of diminished physical health, it also has far-reaching impact on emotional well-being and social interaction. Neglected hearing loss can lead to isolation, depression, and a decrease in cognitive function. It’s essential to recognize the signs early and seek treatment to help your loved one maintain their quality of life.
The role of hearing aids
Luckily, hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss, can frequently be successfully treated with the use of hearing aids. These devices can significantly 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 risk of dementia have all been linked to untreated hearing loss by research performed by Johns Hopkins University. Consistent use of hearing aids is an important step in taking care of 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 experiencing hearing loss, there are a number of ways you can assist. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing exam 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 family member to be proactive about their hearing health. They must be honest about their hearing difficulties and committed to using 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 substantial investment they present.
By addressing hearing loss early and assisting your loved one through the process, you can help them restore 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. With your support and the right hearing care, your loved one can continue to live a fulfilling life.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your family member to get their hearing evaluated.