As our loved ones age, certain changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most prevalent issues they may face is hearing loss. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from some level of hearing loss. And for people who are older than 75, almost half of them are having a difficult time hearing.
Vigilantly watching for indications of hearing loss is essential if you have an older relative that you’re caring for. Their quality of life can be improved and managing the symptoms will be more effective with early detection.
What are the signs of hearing loss in older adults?
Your loved one may be suffering from hearing loss if you notice any of the following signs:
Asking people to repeat themselves
Does your loved one frequently ask you to repeat yourself? They might be having a difficult time hearing if you observe this common indication which will be particularly obvious when there is a lot of background noise.
Increasing the volume to uncomfortable levels
If they constantly turn up the TV or radio volume to levels that are uncomfortably loud for others, it could indicate that they are struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
When meeting people for the first time, your loved one may have difficulty hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can result in misunderstandings and frustration.
Miscommunication leading to arguments
Hearing loss can frequently result in frequent arguments with friends or family because of miscommunication or the perception that they are not listening, when in reality, they simply cannot hear well.
Essential sounds are missed
If your family member is not responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is a clear indication of hearing impairment.
Trouble with phone conversations
Many seniors with hearing loss find it particularly difficult to hear during phone conversations, especially when there is background noise or if they are talking on a cell phone.
Avoidance of social settings
Your loved one might feel self-conscious about their hearing difficulties causing them to remove themselves from social interactions and frequently isolate themselves.
Ignored hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss has a profound impact on social interaction, emotional well-being, and physical health. Depression, isolation, and mental decline are also negative repercussions of disregarded hearing loss. It’s essential to identify the indications early and get treatment to help your loved one preserve their quality of life.
The role of hearing aids
Hearing aids can often successfully manage hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. 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 overall health and well-being of older adults.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have connected untreated hearing loss to mental decline, memory issues, and an increased danger of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Regular use of hearing aids is an essential step in taking care of an older relative because hearing aids have been shown to prevent 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 several ways you can assist. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing assessment from a hearing specialist. Together, you can investigate the available treatment options, including hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also an important thing for your loved one to do. 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.
By dealing with hearing loss early and supporting your loved one through the process, you can help them regain a vibrant social life. Connecting with friends and loved ones and enjoying social interactions is essential to their mental and emotional health, and this will allow them to do just that. With your support and the right hearing care, your family member can continue to lead a fulfilling life.
Contact us to make an appointment for your loved one to get their hearing tested.
