We can anticipate some particular health changes as our loved ones get older. Hearing loss is one of the most predominant of these health concerns. Around one out of every three individuals aged 65 to 74 copes with some degree of hearing loss as disclosed by the National Institute of Health. And for people who are older than 75, nearly half of them are having a hard time hearing.
If you’re caring for a parent, grandparent, or elderly relative, it’s important to stay alert for indicators of hearing loss. Their quality of life can be improved and managing the symptoms will be more effective with early detection.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some significant indicators that your loved one may be experiencing hearing problems:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your loved one often 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.
Raising 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.
Challenges talking to others
Frustrating confusion can happen when your family member meets somebody but can’t hear them even when they are speaking clearly.
Arguments stemming from miscommunication
Hearing loss can often result in regular arguments with friends or family due to miscommunication or the perception that they are not listening, when in truth, they simply cannot hear well.
Important sounds are missed
It’s a definite sign of hearing loss if your family member doesn’t recognize crucial 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 loved one starts staying away from social interactions or withdrawing from experiences they once loved, it may be because they feel embarrassed or left out as a result of their hearing difficulties.
Ignored hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss is not just a question of weakened physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional health and social interaction. Depression, isolation, and mental decline are also negative consequences of neglected hearing loss. In order to help your family member maintain their quality of life, you need to recognize the symptoms early and seek prompt treatment.
Hearing aids play a important role
Fortunately, hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss, can often be successfully managed with the use of hearing aids. Seniors will be better able to continue to take part in their normal day-to-day activities by using one of these devices. The health and quality of life for an older individual depend very much upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of dementia have all been connected to neglected hearing loss by research carried out by Johns Hopkins University. Regular 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
You can help a loved one dealing with hearing loss in a number of ways. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing exam from a hearing specialist. Together, you can explore the available treatment possibilities, including hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also an essential thing for your loved one to do. Honesty about their hearing difficulties and a willingness to wear their hearing aids consistently is crucial. 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.
By dealing with hearing loss early and assisting your loved one through the process, you can help them regain a vibrant social life. This will allow them to reconnect with friends and family and enjoy the relationships that are so important to their emotional and mental well-being. Your loved one will be able to keep living a fulfilling life with the correct hearing care and your support.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your family member to get their hearing assessed.