As our loved ones age, certain changes in their health can be anticipated. Hearing loss is one of the most predominant of these health issues. According to the National Institutes of Health, around one in three individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some level of hearing loss. This figure increases substantially for people over 75, with almost half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Vigilantly watching for indications of hearing loss is important if you have an aging relative that you’re taking care of. Early diagnosis can make a substantial difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
How will you know if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some significant signs that your loved one may be experiencing hearing difficulties:
Asking people to repeat themselves
Do you regularly need to repeat yourself to your elderly family member? They may be having a hard time hearing if you observe this common sign which will be particularly obvious when there is a lot of background noise.
Boosting the volume to uncomfortable levels
If they consistently turn up the TV or radio volume so high that it’s uncomfortably loud for others, it could suggest that they are struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Trouble speaking with others
Frustrating misunderstandings can occur when your loved one meets someone but can’t hear them even when they’re speaking clearly.
Arguments stemming from miscommunication
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 important sounds
If your family member isn’t responding to essential sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is an obvious sign of hearing impairment.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Phone conversations can be especially challenging for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Avoidance of social situations
Your loved one may feel embarrassed about their hearing difficulties causing them to remove themselves from social interactions and often seclude themselves.
The affect of neglected hearing loss
Hearing loss is not just an issue of weakened physical health, it also has far-reaching impact on emotional health and social connection. Depression, solitude, and mental decline are also negative consequences of disregarded hearing loss. In order to help your loved one preserve their quality of life, you need to recognize the symptoms early and seek prompt treatment.
Hearing aids play a important role
Fortunately, hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss, can often be successfully managed 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. The health and quality of life for an older individual depend heavily upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Studies carried out by Johns Hopkins University have correlated untreated hearing loss to mental decline, memory problems, and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Regular 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.
What’s your role?
If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, there are a number of ways you can assist. First, encourage them to consult a hearing professional for a comprehensive hearing assessment. With your assistance, your family member can explore a variety of treatment possibilities, and that includes hearing aids.
Being proactive about their own hearing health is also a significant thing for your loved one to do. They must 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 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. This will allow them to reconnect with friends and family and enjoy the interactions that are so essential to their emotional and mental well-being. With your support and the right hearing care, your loved one can continue to lead a fulfilling life.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your loved one to get their hearing evaluated.