We can anticipate some specific health changes as our loved ones age. One of the most common problems they may encounter is hearing loss. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately one in three individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some degree of hearing loss. This figure increases considerably for those over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Diligently watching for indications of hearing loss is important if you have an older relative that you’re caring for. 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 may be experiencing hearing problems:
Asking people to repeat what they said
Do you frequently need to repeat what you said to your elderly family member? They may be having a hard time hearing if you observe this common sign 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 so high that it’s 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 family member may have difficulty hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can lead to misunderstandings and frustration.
Miscommunication leading to arguments
Hearing loss can frequently result in regular arguments with friends or family because of miscommunication or the perception that they are not listening, when in reality, they simply cannot hear well.
Important sounds are missed
If your loved one isn’t responding to essential sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is an obvious sign of hearing loss.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Many seniors who have hearing loss find it particularly challenging 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 may 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 has a powerful effect on social engagement, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. Neglected hearing loss can lead to isolation, depression, and a decline in mental function. It’s important to identify the signs early and seek treatment to help your loved one maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a significant role
Hearing aids can often successfully manage hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss. Seniors will be better able to continue to take part in their normal day-to-day activities by using one of these devices. The health and quality of life for an older person depend very much upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have connected neglected 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 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?
You can assist a loved one dealing with hearing loss in a number of ways. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing assessment from a hearing specialist. With your help, your loved one can explore various treatment possibilities, and that includes hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also an essential thing for your loved one to do. Honesty about their hearing difficulties and a willingness to wear their hearing aids routinely is essential. While hearing aids are a significant investment, they are crucial for preserving your loved one’s total health and happiness.
By addressing 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 vital to their mental and emotional well-being, and this will allow them to do just that. With your support and the proper hearing care, your family member can continue to live a fulfilling life.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your family member to get their hearing assessed.