We can anticipate some specific health changes as our loved ones age. Hearing loss is one of the most predominant of these health concerns. 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 figure increases substantially for people over 75, with nearly 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 detection can make a substantial difference in managing and enhancing their quality of life.
How can you tell if a senior has hearing loss?
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? 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 so high that it’s uncomfortably loud for others, it could indicate that they are struggling to hear at normal volumes.
Trouble talking to others
When meeting someone for the first time, your family member may have difficulty hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can lead to misunderstandings and frustration.
Disputes because of miscommunication
People with hearing loss frequently 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
It’s a definite sign of hearing loss if your family member doesn’t notice crucial sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Phone conversations can be especially difficult for seniors, and if there is background noise it becomes even more challenging.
Avoidance of social settings
Your loved one might feel embarrassed about their hearing difficulties causing them to remove themselves from social contact and often seclude themselves.
Ignored hearing loss has a huge impact
Hearing loss has a profound effect on social interaction, emotional well-being, as well as physical health. Untreated hearing loss can lead to solitude, depression, and a decline in mental function. In order to help your loved one maintain their quality of life, you need to recognize the symptoms early and seek prompt treatment.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
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 engaging in their normal activities. The health and quality of life for an older individual depend heavily upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Memory problems, cognitive decline, and an increased danger of dementia have all been linked to untreated hearing loss by research performed 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
You can help a loved one going through hearing loss in several ways. The first thing you should do is to motivate them to get a hearing assessment from a hearing specialist. With your assistance, your loved one 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 difficulties and a willingness to wear their hearing aids routinely is crucial. While hearing aids are a significant investment, they are crucial for preserving your loved one’s overall health and happiness.
You can help your family member get back to their active lifestyle by helping them and encouraging them to address 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 well-being. Your loved one will be able to keep living a rewarding life with the proper hearing care and your help.
Call us today to take the first step in addressing your loved one’s hearing loss.