We can expect some specific health changes as our family members get older. One of the most common problems they might encounter is hearing loss. According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately one in three individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 experience some level of hearing loss. This number increases significantly for individuals over 75, with nearly half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Vigilantly watching for indications of hearing loss is important if you have an older relative that you’re caring for. Early detection can make a significant difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
What are the signs of hearing loss in older adults?
Your loved one may be suffering from hearing loss if you notice any of the following signs:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your family member frequently ask you to repeat yourself? This is a common indication that they might not be hearing clearly, particularly in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Raising the volume to uncomfortable levels
They are probably having trouble hearing at normal volume levels if they are continually setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for other people.
Difficulty in conversations with new people
Frustrating misunderstandings can occur when your family member meets somebody but can’t hear them even when they are speaking clearly.
Miscommunication resulting in arguments
Hearing loss can often lead to regular quarrels with friends or family due to miscommunication or the feeling that they aren’t listening, when in truth, they simply can’t hear well.
Missing important sounds
If your loved one isn’t responding to crucial sounds like the alarm clock, cell phone notifications, or even car alarms, this is a clear sign of hearing loss.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Many seniors who have 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 begins staying away from social interactions or withdrawing from experiences they once enjoyed, it could be because they feel embarrassed or left out as a result of their hearing problems.
Neglected hearing loss has a big impact
Hearing loss isn’t just a question of weakened physical health, it also has far-reaching effects on emotional well-being and social connection. Depression, isolation, and mental decline are also negative consequences of neglected hearing loss. In order to help your loved one maintain their quality of life, you need to recognize the symptoms early and get prompt treatment.
The role of hearing aids
Hearing aids can often successfully manage hearing loss, particularly age-related hearing loss. These devices can significantly improve the ability to hear and allow seniors to continue participating in their normal activities. The health and quality of life for an older individual depend very much upon staying socially active with family and friends.
Memory issues, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of dementia have all been connected to neglected hearing loss by research performed by Johns Hopkins University. Regular use of hearing aids is an essential 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?
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 specialist for a comprehensive hearing test. With your help, your family member can investigate 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 issues 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 considerable investment they present.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by supporting them and motivating them to deal with their hearing loss as soon as possible. Connecting with friends and loved ones and enjoying social interactions is vital to their mental and emotional health, and this will allow them to do just that. Your loved one will be able to keep living a fulfilling life with the correct hearing care and your support.
Call us today to take the first step in treating your loved one’s hearing loss.
