As our loved ones get older, specific changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most prevalent problems they may encounter is hearing loss. Around one out of three people aged 65 to 74 copes with some degree of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. This number increases considerably for those over 75, with almost 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 remain alert for signs of hearing loss. Their quality of life can be improved and managing the symptoms will be more successful with early diagnosis.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some significant indicators that your loved one might be experiencing hearing problems:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your loved one often ask you to repeat yourself? This is a common indication that they might not be hearing clearly, especially in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
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.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
When meeting people for the first time, your loved one may have trouble hearing even when the person is talking clearly. This can result in misunderstandings 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 reality they simply can’t hear.
Missing essential sounds
It’s a definite sign of hearing loss if your loved one doesn’t notice essential sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Many seniors with 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.
Social solitude
Your loved one might feel self-conscious about their hearing difficulties 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 diminished physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional well-being and social interaction. Depression, isolation, and mental decline are also negative consequences of disregarded hearing loss. In order to help your family member maintain their quality of life, you need to identify the symptoms early and get prompt treatment.
The role of hearing aids
Hearing aids can often effectively regulate hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. Seniors will be better able to continue to participate in their regular day-to-day activities by using one of these devices. The health and quality of life for an older person depend very much upon staying socially active with family and friends.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have linked neglected hearing loss to mental decline, memory issues, and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Regular use of hearing aids is an important 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 help a loved one going through hearing loss in several ways. First, encourage them to see a hearing specialist for a thorough hearing test. With your assistance, your family member can investigate various treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also essential for your family member to be proactive about the health of their hearing. They must be honest about their hearing issues and committed 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 substantial investment they present.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by supporting them and motivating them to deal with 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 well-being. With your support and the correct hearing care, your loved one can continue to live a fulfilling life.
Call us today to take the first step in addressing your loved one’s hearing loss.
