We can anticipate some particular health changes as our loved ones get older. Hearing loss is one of the most prevalent of these health issues. According to the National Institutes of Health, around one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some level of hearing loss. This figure goes up significantly for individuals over 75, with almost half of all Americans in this age group battling to hear.
If you’re caring for a parent, grandparent, or elderly relative, it’s important to remain alert for signs of hearing loss. Early detection 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 indicators that your loved one may be experiencing hearing problems:
Frequent requests for repetition
Do you frequently need to repeat yourself to your elderly loved one? 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.
Boosting 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 suggest that they are straining to hear at normal volumes.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
When meeting people for the first time, your family member may have difficulty hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can result in 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.
Missing essential 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 sign of hearing loss.
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
If your family member begins staying away from social interactions or withdrawing from experiences they once loved, it might be because they feel self-conscious or left out due to their hearing problems.
Ignored hearing loss has a big impact
Hearing loss has a profound impact on social engagement, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. Depression, isolation, and cognitive decline are also negative repercussions of disregarded hearing loss. It’s important to identify the indications early and seek treatment to help your family member maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
Luckily, hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss, can often be successfully treated with the use of hearing aids. 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 very much upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Memory problems, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of dementia have all been related to untreated hearing loss by research performed by Johns Hopkins University. 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.
How you can help
If you think that your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, there are several ways you can help. The first thing you should do is to encourage them to get a hearing assessment from a hearing specialist. With your help, your loved one can explore a variety of treatment possibilities, and that includes hearing aids.
It’s also essential for your family member to be proactive about their hearing health. Honesty about their hearing difficulties and a willingness to use their hearing aids consistently is crucial. While hearing aids are a considerable investment, they are crucial for maintaining your loved one’s total health and happiness.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and motivating them to deal with their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and relatives and enjoying social interactions is vital to their mental and emotional well-being, and this will permit them to do just that. With your support and the proper hearing care, your family member can continue to live a fulfilling life.
Call us today to take the first step in treating your loved one’s hearing loss.