As our loved ones get older, 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, around one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from some degree of hearing loss. And for people who are older than 75, almost half of them are having a hard time hearing.
If you’re caring for a parent, grandparent, or elderly loved one, it’s important to stay alert for indicators of hearing loss. Their quality of life can be enhanced and managing the symptoms will be more successful with early diagnosis.
What are the signs of hearing loss in older adults?
Below are some key indicators that your loved one may be experiencing hearing difficulties:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your loved one frequently ask you to repeat yourself? This is a common indication that they might not be hearing clearly, particularly in situations with background noise or multiple speakers.
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.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
Frustrating confusion can occur when your family member meets somebody but can’t hear them even when they’re speaking clearly.
Miscommunication resulting in arguments
Individuals with hearing loss often have tense relationships with family and friends because they are accused of “selective hearing” when in truth they simply can’t hear.
Missing essential sounds
It’s a sure sign of hearing loss if your loved one doesn’t notice crucial sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Trouble with phone conversations
Phone conversations can be especially challenging for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Social solitude
If your loved one begins avoiding social contact or withdrawing from activities they once loved, it may be because they feel embarrassed or left out due to their hearing difficulties.
Ignored hearing loss has a big impact
Hearing loss isn’t just a matter of weakened physical health, it also has an extensive impact on emotional well-being and social connection. Untreated hearing loss can lead to isolation, depression, and a decline in mental function. It’s important to identify the signs early and seek treatment to help your family member preserve their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
Hearing aids can often successfully manage hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss. These devices can considerably improve the ability to hear and permit seniors to continue engaging in their normal activities. The health and quality of life for an older individual depend very much upon staying socially active with family and friends.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of dementia have all been related to neglected hearing loss by research performed by Johns Hopkins University. Regular 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
If you believe that your loved one is coping with hearing loss, there are a number of ways you can assist. First, encourage them to consult a hearing specialist for a comprehensive hearing test. Together, you can investigate the available treatment possibilities, including hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also an important thing for your family member to do. They have to be honest about their hearing difficulties and committed to using 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 considerable investment they present.
By dealing with hearing loss early and assisting your loved one through the process, you can help them restore a vibrant social life. Connecting with friends and relatives and enjoying social interactions is vital to their mental and emotional well-being, and this will allow them to do just that. Your family member will be able to keep living a fulfilling life with the proper hearing care and your help.
Contact us today to take the first step in treating your loved one’s hearing loss.