As our loved ones get older, certain changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most prevalent problems they might face is hearing loss. About one out of every three people aged 65 to 74 deals with some degree of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. And for people who are older than 75, nearly half of them are having a hard time hearing.
Vigilantly watching for indications of hearing loss is crucial if you have an older relative that you’re caring for. Their quality of life can be enhanced and managing the symptoms will be more effective with early detection.
What are the indications of hearing loss in older adults?
Below are some key indicators that your loved one might be experiencing hearing problems:
Frequent requests for repetition
Do you frequently need to repeat yourself to your elderly loved one? They might be having a hard time hearing if you notice this common sign which will be particularly evident when there is a lot of background noise.
Increasing the volume to uncomfortable levels
They are probably having trouble hearing at normal volume levels if they are constantly setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for others.
Challenges talking to others
Frustrating confusion can occur when your family member meets someone but can’t hear them even when they are talking clearly.
Arguments stemming from miscommunication
Hearing loss can often lead to frequent arguments with friends or family because of miscommunication or the feeling that they are not listening, when in reality, they simply cannot hear well.
Missing essential sounds
If your family member is not responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is a clear sign of hearing impairment.
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 situations
If your loved one starts steering clear of social interactions or withdrawing from experiences they once enjoyed, it may be because they feel embarrassed or left out as a result of their hearing problems.
Ignored hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss has a powerful effect on social interaction, emotional well-being, and physical health. Depression, solitude, and cognitive decline are also negative consequences of neglected hearing loss. It’s essential to identify the indications early and get treatment to help your loved one preserve their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a important role
Fortunately, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can frequently be effectively treated with the use of hearing aids. Seniors will be better able to continue to participate in their regular day-to-day activities by utilizing one of these devices. The health and quality of life for an older person depend very much upon staying socially active with family and friends.
Memory problems, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been linked to untreated hearing loss by research performed by Johns Hopkins University. Consistent use of hearing aids is an essential step in taking care of an older relative because hearing aids have been shown to counter or even reverse many of these cognitive risks.
How you can help
If you think that your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, there are several ways you can assist. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing assessment 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 family member to do. Honesty about their hearing challenges and a willingness to use their hearing aids routinely is essential. 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.
By dealing with hearing loss early and assisting your loved one through the process, you can help them regain a vibrant social life. Connecting with friends and loved ones 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 correct hearing care, your family member can continue to live a fulfilling life.
Contact us today to take the first step in treating your loved one’s hearing loss.