As our loved ones age, specific changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most prevalent issues they may encounter is hearing loss. About one out of every three people aged 65 to 74 deals with some degree of hearing loss as disclosed by the National Institute of Health. And for individuals who are older than 75, almost half of them are having a tough time hearing.
Diligently watching for indications of hearing loss is crucial if you have an aging relative that you’re taking care of. Their quality of life can be improved and managing the symptoms will be more successful with early diagnosis.
What are the signs of hearing loss in seniors?
Below are some significant signs that your loved one might be experiencing hearing difficulties:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your loved one often ask you to repeat yourself? This is a common sign that they might not be hearing clearly, particularly in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Boosting the volume to uncomfortable levels
If they constantly turn up the TV or radio volume to levels that are uncomfortably loud for others, it could suggest that they are struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges in conversations with new people
When meeting someone for the first time, your family member may have trouble hearing even when the person is talking clearly. This can result in confusion and frustration.
Miscommunication resulting in arguments
Hearing loss can often result in regular arguments with friends or family due to miscommunication or the feeling that they aren’t listening, when in reality, they simply can’t hear well.
Missing important sounds
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
Phone conversations can be particularly challenging for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Avoidance of social settings
If your family member begins steering clear of social interactions or withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, it may be because they feel embarrassed or left out due to their hearing problems.
The affect of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss has a powerful impact on social interaction, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. Depression, solitude, and mental decline are also negative consequences of untreated hearing loss. It’s important to recognize the indications early and seek treatment to help your family member preserve their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a important role
Luckily, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can frequently be successfully treated with the use of hearing aids. Seniors will be better able to continue to take part in their normal day-to-day activities by using one of these devices. Staying socially active with family, friends, and community is vital for the overall health and well-being of older adults.
Studies carried out by Johns Hopkins University have linked neglected hearing loss to mental decline, memory problems, and an increased danger of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Regular use of hearing aids is an important 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 think that your loved one is coping with hearing loss, there are several ways you can assist. The first thing you should do is to motivate 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.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also a significant thing for your family member to do. They have to be honest about their hearing difficulties and committed to wearing hearing aids as recommended. Hearing aids are an essential part of the management of your loved one’s hearing health and are well worth the substantial investment they present.
By addressing hearing loss early and assisting 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 relationships that are so vital to their emotional and mental health. Your loved one will be able to keep living a fulfilling life with the correct hearing care and your support.
Contact us today to take the first step in treating your loved one’s hearing loss.
