As our loved ones get older, certain changes in their health can be expected. One of the most common problems they may face is hearing loss. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, around one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some level of hearing loss. And for people who are older than 75, nearly half of them are having a hard time hearing.
Vigilantly watching for signs of hearing loss is essential 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 successful with early detection.
How will you know if a senior has hearing loss?
Your loved one may be suffering from hearing loss if you notice any of the following signs:
Asking people to repeat themselves
Do you regularly need to repeat yourself to your elderly family member? They may be having a difficult time hearing if you observe this common sign which will be particularly obvious when there is a lot of background noise.
Cranking the volume up
They are most likely having problems hearing at normal volume levels if they are constantly setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for other people.
Trouble speaking with others
Frustrating confusion can occur when your family member meets someone but can’t hear them even when they are talking clearly.
Disputes stemming from miscommunication
Hearing loss can frequently lead to regular arguments with friends or family due to miscommunication or the feeling that they are not listening, when in truth, they simply cannot hear well.
Important sounds are missed
It’s a sure sign of hearing loss if your family member doesn’t recognize crucial sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
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 using a cell phone.
Social isolation
If your family member begins steering clear of social contact or withdrawing from activities they once loved, it may be because they feel self-conscious or left out due to their hearing difficulties.
The impact of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss isn’t just a matter of weakened physical health, it also has an extensive effects on emotional health and social connection. Depression, solitude, and mental decline are also negative consequences of disregarded hearing loss. It’s important to recognize the indications early and get treatment to help your loved one maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
Hearing aids can often successfully manage hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. Seniors will be better able to continue to participate in their normal day-to-day activities by utilizing one of these devices. Remaining socially active with family, friends, and community is vital for the general health and well-being of older adults.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been linked to neglected hearing loss by research carried out 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
You can help a loved one going through hearing loss in several ways. The first thing you should do is to encourage them to get a hearing exam from a hearing specialist. With your assistance, 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. They must be honest about their hearing difficulties and dedicated to wearing 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 family member get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and encouraging them to deal with their hearing loss as soon as possible. This will enable them to reconnect with friends and family and enjoy the relationships that are so vital to their emotional and mental health. Your family member will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the correct hearing care and your support.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your loved one to get their hearing tested.
