As our family members age, certain changes in their health can be anticipated. Hearing loss is one of the most predominant of these health issues. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, approximately one in three individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some degree of hearing loss. This number increases significantly for those over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
If you’re taking care of a parent, grandparent, or elderly loved one, it’s essential to remain alert for indicators of hearing loss. Early detection can make a considerable difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
Your loved one may be suffering from hearing loss if you notice any of the following signs:
Frequent requests for repetition
Do you frequently need to repeat what you said to your elderly family member? This is a common indication that they may not be hearing clearly, especially in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Boosting the volume to uncomfortable levels
If they consistently 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
When meeting people for the first time, your family member might have trouble hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can result in confusion and frustration.
Disputes because of miscommunication
Hearing loss can frequently result in frequent arguments with friends or family due to miscommunication or the feeling that they aren’t listening, when in reality, they simply cannot hear well.
Missing important sounds
If your loved one isn’t responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is an obvious indication of hearing loss.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Many seniors with hearing loss find it particularly challenging to hear while talking on the phone, especially when there is background noise or if they are using a cell phone.
Avoidance of social settings
Your loved one may feel self-conscious about their hearing problems causing them to remove themselves from social interactions and frequently isolate themselves.
Ignored hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss isn’t just a question of weakened physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional well-being and social connection. Depression, solitude, and cognitive decline are also negative repercussions of neglected hearing loss. It’s important to identify the signs early and seek treatment to help your family member maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a important role
Luckily, hearing loss, particularly 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. Staying socially active with family, friends, and community is vital for the overall health and well-being of older adults.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been related to untreated hearing loss by research carried out by Johns Hopkins University. Regular use of hearing aids is an essential 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?
If you believe that your loved one is coping with hearing loss, there are several ways you can help. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing test from a hearing specialist. Together, you can investigate the available treatment possibilities, including hearing aids.
It’s also important for your family member to be proactive about the health of their hearing. Honesty about their hearing challenges and a determination to use their hearing aids consistently is crucial. Hearing aids are an essential part of the management of your loved one’s hearing health and are well worth the considerable investment they present.
By addressing hearing loss early and supporting your loved one through the process, you can help them regain a vibrant social life. This will enable them to reconnect with friends and family and enjoy the interactions that are so vital to their emotional and mental well-being. With your support and the proper hearing care, your family member can continue to live a fulfilling life.
Contact us to make an appointment for your loved one to get their hearing assessed.