We can anticipate some specific health changes as our family members get older. Hearing loss is one of the most predominant of these health concerns. About one out of three people aged 65 to 74 copes with some level of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. This number goes up significantly for individuals over 75, with almost half of all Americans in this age group battling to hear.
If you’re taking care of a parent, grandparent, or elderly loved one, it’s crucial to remain alert for indicators of hearing loss. Their quality of life can be improved and managing the symptoms will be more successful with early diagnosis.
How will you know if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some key indicators that your loved one might be experiencing hearing difficulties:
Frequent requests for repetition
Do you frequently need to repeat yourself to your elderly family member? This is a common indication that they might not be hearing clearly, particularly in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Increasing the volume to uncomfortable levels
They are probably having problems hearing at normal volume levels if they are continually setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for others.
Challenges in conversations with new people
When meeting people for the first time, your family member might have trouble hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can lead to confusion and frustration.
Arguments because of miscommunication
People with hearing loss often have tense relationships with family and friends because they are accused of “selective hearing” when in truth they simply can’t hear.
Missing essential sounds
It’s a definite sign of hearing loss if your family member doesn’t notice crucial sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Trouble with phone conversations
Many seniors with hearing loss find it particularly difficult to hear while talking on the phone, especially when there is background noise or if they are using a cell phone.
Social isolation
Your loved one may feel self-conscious about their hearing problems causing them to remove themselves from social contact and frequently seclude themselves.
Neglected hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss isn’t just an issue of weakened physical health, it also has an extensive impact on emotional health and social interaction. Neglected hearing loss can result in solitude, depression, and a decrease in mental function. In order to help your loved one maintain their quality of life, you need to identify the symptoms early and get prompt treatment.
Hearing aids play a significant role
Luckily, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can often be successfully 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.
Memory problems, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of dementia have all been connected to untreated hearing loss by research performed by Johns Hopkins University. However, the consistent use of hearing aids has been shown to reverse or prevent many of these cognitive issues, making it a critical step in caring for an older parent or relative.
How you can help
You can assist a loved one going through hearing loss in a number of ways. First, motivate them to consult a hearing specialist for a thorough hearing test. Together, you can explore the available treatment possibilities, including hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also an essential thing for your family member to do. They have to be honest about their hearing issues and dedicated to wearing hearing aids as recommended. While hearing aids are a considerable investment, they are crucial for maintaining your loved one’s total health and happiness.
You can help your loved one get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and motivating them to deal with their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and relatives and enjoying social interactions is vital 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 live a fulfilling life.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your loved one to get their hearing evaluated.