As our family members get older, certain changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most prevalent problems they might encounter is hearing loss. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, approximately one in three individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from some level of hearing loss. This figure goes up significantly for people over 75, with almost half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Diligently watching for signs of hearing loss is important if you have an aging relative that you’re caring for. Early detection can make a considerable difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
What are the signs of hearing loss in seniors?
Below are some key 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 indication that they might not be hearing clearly, particularly in situations with background noise or multiple speakers.
Cranking the volume up
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 struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges in conversations with new people
Frustrating misunderstandings can happen when your family member meets someone but can’t hear them even when they’re talking clearly.
Arguments stemming from miscommunication
Hearing loss can frequently lead to frequent quarrels with friends or family because of miscommunication or the perception that they are not listening, when in truth, they simply can’t hear well.
Missing important sounds
It’s a definite sign of hearing loss if your family member doesn’t recognize 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
Your loved one might feel embarrassed about their hearing problems causing them to remove themselves from social interactions and frequently seclude themselves.
Neglected hearing loss has a big impact
Hearing loss isn’t just a question of diminished physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional well-being and social connection. Neglected hearing loss can lead to solitude, depression, and a decrease in mental function. It’s essential to identify the indications early and seek treatment to help your family member maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
Luckily, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can often be effectively treated with the use of hearing aids. Seniors will be better able to continue to take part in their normal day-to-day activities by utilizing one of these devices. Remaining socially active with family, friends, and community is essential for the general health and well-being of older adults.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have linked untreated hearing loss to mental decline, memory problems, and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. 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 assist a loved one going through hearing loss in a variety 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 options, including hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also an important thing for your loved one to do. Honesty about their hearing difficulties and a determination to wear their hearing aids routinely is crucial. 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.
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 relatives and enjoying social interactions is essential to their mental and emotional health, and this will permit them to do just that. Your loved one will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the proper hearing care and your help.
Contact us today to take the first step in treating your loved one’s hearing loss.