We can anticipate some specific health changes as our family members get older. One of the most prevalent issues they may encounter is hearing loss. About one out of every three people aged 65 to 74 deals with some level of hearing loss as disclosed by the National Institute of Health. This figure increases significantly for those over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
If you’re taking care of a parent, grandparent, or elderly loved one, it’s important to remain alert for indicators of hearing loss. Early detection can make a substantial difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some key signs that your loved one might be experiencing hearing problems:
Asking people to repeat what they said
Does your family member frequently ask you to repeat yourself? This is a common sign that they may not be hearing clearly, especially in situations with background noise or multiple speakers.
Cranking the volume up
If they constantly turn up the TV or radio volume to levels that are uncomfortably loud for others, it could reveal that they are straining to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges talking to others
Frustrating confusion can happen when your loved one meets someone but can’t hear them even when they are speaking clearly.
Disputes stemming from miscommunication
Hearing loss can often lead to frequent arguments with friends or family due to miscommunication or the feeling that they aren’t listening, when in reality, they simply cannot hear well.
Important 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.
Trouble with phone conversations
Many seniors who have 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.
Avoidance of social settings
Your loved one might feel embarrassed about their hearing difficulties causing them to remove themselves from social interactions and often isolate themselves.
The affect of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss has a powerful effect on social interaction, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. 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 get prompt treatment.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
Hearing aids can often effectively manage hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. These devices can significantly improve the ability to hear and allow seniors to continue participating in their normal activities. The health and quality of life for an older person depend heavily upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have linked neglected hearing loss to cognitive decline, memory issues, and an increased danger of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Consistent use of hearing aids is an important step in caring for 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 experiencing hearing loss, there are several ways you can help. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing test from a hearing specialist. Together, you can investigate the available treatment possibilities, 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 issues and dedicated to using hearing aids as recommended. While hearing aids are a substantial investment, they are essential for maintaining your loved one’s total health and happiness.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by supporting them and encouraging them to address their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and loved ones and enjoying social interactions is vital to their mental and emotional health, and this will permit them to do just that. Your family member will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the correct hearing care and your help.
Contact us today to take the first step in addressing your loved one’s hearing loss.
