As our family members age, specific changes in their health can be anticipated. One of the most common issues they may face is hearing loss. About one out of three individuals aged 65 to 74 deals with some level of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. And for people who are older than 75, nearly half of them are having a tough time hearing.
If you’re taking care of a parent, grandparent, or elderly loved one, it’s important to stay alert for signs of hearing loss. Early detection can make a significant difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
How will you know if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some key indicators that your loved one may be experiencing hearing difficulties:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your family member frequently ask you to repeat yourself? This is a common sign that they may not be hearing clearly, especially in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Boosting the volume to uncomfortable levels
They are most likely having trouble hearing at normal volume levels if they are continually setting their audio devices to levels that are uncomfortable for other people.
Trouble talking to others
Frustrating misunderstandings can occur when your loved one meets somebody but can’t hear them even when they are speaking clearly.
Disputes stemming from miscommunication
Hearing loss can often result in regular arguments with friends or family due to miscommunication or the feeling that they are not listening, when in truth, they simply can’t hear well.
Important sounds are missed
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 impairment.
Trouble with phone conversations
Phone conversations can be especially difficult for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Social solitude
If your family member starts steering clear of social contact or withdrawing from experiences they once enjoyed, it could be because they feel embarrassed or left out due to their hearing problems.
Neglected hearing loss has a huge 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 repercussions of neglected hearing loss. 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 substantial role
Hearing aids can often effectively regulate hearing loss, especially age-related hearing loss. Seniors will be better able to continue to take part in their regular day-to-day activities by utilizing one of these devices. 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 untreated hearing loss by research carried out by Johns Hopkins University. Regular use of hearing aids is an essential step in taking care of an older relative because hearing aids have been shown to counter or even reverse many of these cognitive risks.
What’s your role?
If you think that your loved one is coping with hearing loss, there are a number of ways you can assist. First, encourage them to see a hearing specialist for a thorough hearing exam. Together, you can investigate the available treatment options, including hearing aids.
It’s also essential for your family member to be proactive about the health of their hearing. They must be honest about their hearing difficulties and dedicated 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 significant investment they present.
You can help your loved one get back to their active lifestyle by supporting them and motivating them to deal with their hearing loss as soon as possible. This will enable them to reconnect with family and friends and enjoy the interactions that are so important to their emotional and mental health. Your family member will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the correct hearing care and your help.
Call us today to take the first step in addressing your loved one’s hearing loss.