We can anticipate some particular health changes as our family members age. One of the most common problems they might face is hearing loss. Around one out of every three people aged 65 to 74 copes with some degree of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. This number increases significantly for individuals over 75, with almost half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Vigilantly watching for signs of hearing loss is essential if you have an aging relative that you’re caring for. Early detection can make a considerable difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
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 frequently need to repeat yourself to your elderly family member? They may be having a hard time hearing if you notice this common indication which will be particularly obvious when there is a lot of background noise.
Cranking the volume up
If they constantly turn up the TV or radio volume to levels that are uncomfortably loud for others, it could reveal that they are struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
When meeting someone for the first time, your loved one may have difficulty hearing even when the person is talking clearly. This can lead to confusion and frustration.
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.
Important sounds are missed
If your loved one is not responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is an obvious sign of hearing loss.
Trouble with phone conversations
Many seniors with hearing loss find it particularly challenging to hear while talking on the phone, especially when there is background noise or if they are using a cell phone.
Avoidance of social settings
If your loved one starts staying away from social interactions or withdrawing from activities they once loved, it could be because they feel embarrassed or left out due to their hearing difficulties.
The impact of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss has a profound effect on social engagement, emotional well-being, and physical health. Depression, isolation, and mental decline are also negative repercussions of neglected hearing loss. It’s important to identify the indications early and get treatment to help your loved one preserve their quality of life.
The role of hearing aids
Luckily, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can often be effectively managed with the use of hearing aids. These devices can considerably improve the ability to hear and allow seniors to continue engaging in their normal activities. Staying socially active with family, friends, and community is essential for the overall health and well-being of older adults.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been related to neglected hearing loss by research carried out 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 prevent or even reverse many of these cognitive risks.
What’s your role?
You can assist a loved one dealing with hearing loss in a number of ways. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing exam from a hearing specialist. With your help, your loved one can explore a variety of treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also essential for your family member to be proactive about the health of their hearing. They have to be honest about their hearing issues and dedicated 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 substantial investment they present.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and encouraging them to deal with their hearing loss as soon as possible. This will allow them to reconnect with family and friends and enjoy the interactions that are so vital to their emotional and mental well-being. Your family member will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the proper hearing care and your support.
Call us today to take the first step in addressing your loved one’s hearing loss.
