We can expect some specific health changes as our loved ones get older. Hearing loss is one of the most predominant of these health concerns. As reported by the National Institutes of Health, around one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 suffer from some level 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 older relative that you’re taking care of. Early diagnosis can make a significant difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
What are the indications of hearing loss in older adults?
Your loved one may be suffering from hearing loss if you notice any of the following signs:
Asking people to repeat what they said
Do you regularly need to repeat what you said 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.
Increasing the volume to uncomfortable levels
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 people for the first time, your loved one may have difficulty hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can result in misunderstandings and frustration.
Miscommunication resulting in arguments
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.
Missing essential sounds
It’s a definite sign of hearing loss if your family member doesn’t recognize essential sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Trouble with phone conversations
Phone conversations can be particularly difficult for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Avoidance of social situations
Your loved one might feel embarrassed about their hearing problems causing them to remove themselves from social contact and often isolate themselves.
Ignored hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss is not just a question of weakened physical health, it also has an extensive effects on emotional well-being and social connection. Untreated hearing loss can lead to solitude, depression, and a decrease in cognitive 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 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.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have connected untreated hearing loss to mental decline, memory problems, and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Consistent use of hearing aids is an important 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. First, motivate them to see a hearing professional for a comprehensive hearing exam. With your help, your loved one can investigate a variety of treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also essential for your loved one to be proactive about the health of their hearing. Honesty about their hearing challenges and a willingness to wear 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 substantial investment they present.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by supporting them and encouraging 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 right hearing care, your family member can continue to live a fulfilling life.
Contact us today to take the first step in addressing your loved one’s hearing loss.