As our loved ones age, specific changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most common issues they might face 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 degree of hearing loss. And for people who are older than 75, almost half of them are having a difficult time hearing.
Diligently watching for signs of hearing loss is essential if you have an older relative that you’re taking care of. Their quality of life can be enhanced and managing the symptoms will be more successful with early diagnosis.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some key indicators that your loved one might be experiencing hearing problems:
Asking people to repeat themselves
Do you regularly need to repeat what you said to your elderly loved one? This is a common sign that they might not be hearing clearly, especially in situations with background noise or multiple speakers.
Cranking the volume up
They are most likely having trouble hearing at normal volume levels if they are constantly setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for others.
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.
Miscommunication resulting in arguments
Hearing loss can frequently lead to regular quarrels with friends or family due to miscommunication or the feeling that they aren’t listening, when in reality, they simply cannot hear well.
Essential sounds are missed
It’s a sure 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 challenging to hear during phone conversations, especially when there is background noise or if they are using a cell phone.
Avoidance of social settings
If your loved one starts avoiding social interactions or withdrawing from experiences they once enjoyed, it might be because they feel self-conscious or left out due to their hearing problems.
Ignored hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss isn’t just a matter of diminished physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional health and social interaction. Depression, isolation, and mental decline are also negative repercussions of disregarded hearing loss. It’s essential to recognize the signs early and seek treatment to help your family member maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a important role
Luckily, hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss, can often be effectively managed with the use of hearing aids. These devices can substantially improve the ability to hear and permit seniors to continue engaging in their normal activities. The health and quality of life for an older individual depend heavily upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have linked untreated hearing loss to cognitive decline, memory problems, and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Consistent use of hearing aids is an essential step in taking care of an older relative because hearing aids have been shown to counter or even reverse many of these cognitive risks.
What’s your role?
If you believe that your loved one is coping with hearing loss, there are a number of ways you can help. First, encourage them to see a hearing professional for a comprehensive hearing exam. With your assistance, your loved one can explore various treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also important for your family member to be proactive about the health of their hearing. They have to be honest about their hearing difficulties and committed to wearing hearing aids as recommended. Hearing aids are a crucial part of the management of your loved one’s hearing health and are well worth the considerable investment they present.
By dealing with hearing loss early and supporting your loved one through the process, you can help them restore a vibrant social life. 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 family member will be able to keep living a fulfilling life with the correct hearing care and your support.
Call us today to take the first step in addressing your loved one’s hearing loss.