As our family members age, specific 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, approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some degree of hearing loss. This number increases considerably for those over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Diligently watching for indications of hearing loss is essential if you have an aging relative that you’re taking care of. Early diagnosis can make a considerable difference in managing and improving their quality of life.
How will you know if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some significant signs that your loved one might be experiencing hearing problems:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your family member often ask you to repeat yourself? They might be having a hard time hearing if you notice this common indication which will be particularly evident 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 reveal that they are struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges talking to others
Frustrating misunderstandings can occur when your loved one meets somebody but can’t hear them even when they are talking clearly.
Arguments because of miscommunication
Hearing loss can often lead to frequent quarrels with friends or family due to miscommunication or the perception that they aren’t listening, when in truth, they simply can’t hear well.
Missing important sounds
If your loved one is not responding to essential sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is a clear indication of hearing loss.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Many seniors with hearing loss find it particularly challenging to hear during phone conversations, especially when there is background noise or if they are using a cell phone.
Avoidance of social situations
Your loved one may feel embarrassed about their hearing difficulties causing them to remove themselves from social contact and frequently seclude themselves.
Neglected hearing loss has a big impact
Hearing loss is not just a question of diminished physical health, it also has an extensive effects on emotional health and social connection. Depression, isolation, and cognitive decline are also negative repercussions of untreated hearing loss. It’s important to identify the indications early and get treatment to help your family member preserve their quality of life.
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 allow seniors to continue participating in their normal activities. The health and quality of life for an older person depend heavily upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Studies done by Johns Hopkins University have connected neglected hearing loss to mental decline, memory issues, and an increased danger of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. However, the consistent use of hearing aids has been shown to counter or stop many of these cognitive problems, making it an essential step in caring for an older parent or relative.
What’s your role?
You can help a loved one going through hearing loss in a variety of ways. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing exam from a hearing specialist. With your assistance, your family member can investigate various treatment options, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also essential for your loved one to be proactive about their hearing health. Honesty about their hearing challenges and a willingness to use their hearing aids routinely 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.
By addressing hearing loss early and supporting your loved one through the process, you can help them restore a vibrant social life. This will allow them to reconnect with family and friends and enjoy the relationships that are so essential to their emotional and mental well-being. Your loved one will be able to keep living a fulfilling life with the proper hearing care and your help.
Contact us to schedule an appointment for your family member to get their hearing evaluated.