We can anticipate some specific health changes as our loved ones age. Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent of these health concerns. 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 goes up significantly for those over 75, with almost half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Diligently watching for indications of hearing loss is crucial if you have an older relative that you’re caring for. Early diagnosis can make a substantial difference in managing and improving 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
Does your family member often ask you to repeat yourself? They may be having a hard time hearing if you observe this common indication which will be particularly evident when there is a lot of background noise.
Cranking the volume up
If they consistently turn up the TV or radio volume to levels that are uncomfortably loud for others, it could reveal that they are straining to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges in conversations with new people
When meeting someone for the first time, your loved one might have trouble hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can lead to misunderstandings and frustration.
Arguments stemming from miscommunication
People with hearing loss often have tense relationships with family and friends because they are accused of “selective hearing” when in reality they simply can’t hear.
Missing important sounds
If your loved one is not responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is a clear sign of hearing impairment.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Many seniors who have hearing loss find it particularly difficult to hear while talking on the phone, especially when there is background noise or if they are using a cell phone.
Social solitude
If your loved one begins staying away from social contact or withdrawing from activities they once loved, it could be because they feel self-conscious or left out as a result of their hearing difficulties.
The impact of untreated hearing loss
Hearing loss has a profound impact on social interaction, emotional well-being, and physical health. Neglected hearing loss can lead to solitude, depression, and a decline in cognitive function. It’s important to identify the indications early and get treatment to help your family member maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a significant role
Luckily, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can often be effectively treated 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 total health and well-being of older adults.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been connected to untreated hearing loss by research carried out by Johns Hopkins University. Consistent use of hearing aids is an essential 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 think that your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, there are several ways you can assist. The first thing you should do is to encourage them to get a hearing assessment from a hearing specialist. With your assistance, your loved one can explore a variety of treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also important for your family member to be proactive about the health of their hearing. They have to be honest about their hearing difficulties and committed to using 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.
You can help your loved one get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and encouraging them to address their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and relatives and enjoying social interactions is essential to their mental and emotional well-being, and this will permit them to do just that. 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.
