As our loved ones age, specific changes in their health can be anticipated. Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent of these health issues. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, around one in three individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from some degree of hearing loss. And for individuals who are older than 75, almost half of them are having a hard time hearing.
Diligently watching for indications of hearing loss is crucial if you have an aging relative that you’re caring for. Early detection can make a considerable difference in managing and improving their quality of life.
What are the indications of hearing loss in seniors?
Your loved one may be suffering from hearing loss if you notice any of the following signs:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your loved one frequently ask you to repeat yourself? This is a common sign that they might not be hearing clearly, especially in situations with background noise or multiple speakers.
Cranking the volume up
If they constantly turn up the TV or radio volume so high that it’s uncomfortably loud for others, it could reveal that they are struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges speaking with others
When meeting someone for the first time, your family member might have difficulty hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can result in confusion and frustration.
Arguments stemming from miscommunication
Individuals with hearing loss frequently have tense relationships with family and friends because they are accused of “selective hearing” when in reality they simply can’t hear.
Missing essential sounds
It’s a sure sign of hearing loss if your family member doesn’t notice crucial sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Phone conversations can be especially difficult for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Avoidance of social situations
If your loved one starts staying away from social contact or withdrawing from experiences they once loved, it might be because they feel embarrassed or left out as a result of their hearing difficulties.
Ignored hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss has a profound effect on social interaction, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. Neglected hearing loss can lead to isolation, depression, and a decline 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.
The role of hearing aids
Hearing aids can often effectively regulate hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss. These devices can substantially improve the ability to hear and permit seniors to continue participating in their normal activities. 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 risk of dementia have all been related 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.
How you can help
You can assist a loved one going through hearing loss in several ways. The first thing you should do is to encourage them to get a hearing test from a hearing specialist. With your help, your family member can explore various treatment possibilities, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also essential for your family member to be proactive about their hearing health. Honesty about their hearing challenges and a willingness to wear 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.
You can help your loved one get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and motivating them to address their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and loved ones and enjoying social interactions is essential to their mental and emotional health, and this will permit 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.
