We can anticipate some specific health changes as our family members age. Hearing loss is one of the most predominant of these health issues. About one out of every three people aged 65 to 74 copes with some level of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. This figure goes up considerably for those 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 relative, it’s crucial to stay alert for signs of hearing loss. Their quality of life can be enhanced and managing the symptoms will be more successful with early diagnosis.
What are the indications of hearing loss in older adults?
Below are some significant indicators that your loved one might be experiencing hearing problems:
Asking people to repeat themselves
Does your loved one frequently ask you to repeat what you’ve said? They might be having a hard time hearing if you notice this common indication which will be particularly obvious when there is a lot of background noise.
Boosting the volume to uncomfortable levels
They are probably having trouble hearing at normal volume levels if they are continually setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for other people.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
Frustrating misunderstandings can happen when your family member meets someone but can’t hear them even when they are talking clearly.
Miscommunication leading to arguments
Individuals with hearing loss frequently have tense relationships with family and friends because they are accused of “selective hearing” when in truth they simply can’t hear.
Essential sounds are missed
It’s a definite sign of hearing loss if your loved one doesn’t notice essential sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Phone conversations can be particularly difficult for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Social isolation
Your loved one might feel embarrassed about their hearing difficulties causing them to remove themselves from social contact and often isolate themselves.
The affect of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss has a profound impact on social engagement, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. Depression, solitude, and cognitive decline are also negative repercussions of neglected hearing loss. It’s essential to recognize the signs early and seek treatment to help your loved one maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a important role
Hearing aids can often successfully regulate hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. These devices can considerably 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 staying socially active with family and friends.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been connected to untreated hearing loss by research performed by Johns Hopkins University. Consistent use of hearing aids is an important step in caring for an older relative because hearing aids have been shown to counter or even reverse many of these cognitive risks.
What’s your role?
If you think that your loved one is coping with hearing loss, there are several ways you can assist. First, encourage them to see a hearing professional for a comprehensive hearing test. With your assistance, your family member can investigate 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. They must be honest about their hearing issues and dedicated to using hearing aids as recommended. Hearing aids are a crucial part of the management of your loved one’s hearing health and are well worth the significant investment they present.
You can help your loved one get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and encouraging them to deal with their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and relatives and enjoying social interactions is essential to their mental and emotional health, and this will allow them to do just that. Your loved one will be able to keep living a fulfilling life with the correct hearing care and your help.
Call us today to take the first step in treating your loved one’s hearing loss.