We can expect some particular health changes as our family members get older. One of the most prevalent problems they might encounter is hearing loss. Around one out of three individuals aged 65 to 74 copes with some degree of hearing loss as reported by the National Institute of Health. This number increases significantly for people over 75, with almost half of all Americans in this age group struggling to hear.
Diligently watching for indications of hearing loss is crucial if you have an aging relative that you’re caring for. Early detection can make a substantial difference in managing and improving their quality of life.
How will you know if a senior has hearing loss?
Below are some key signs that your loved one might be experiencing hearing difficulties:
Frequent requests for repetition
Does your family member often ask you to repeat what you’ve said? This is a common sign that they may not be hearing clearly, particularly in settings with background noise or multiple speakers.
Increasing the volume to uncomfortable levels
If they constantly turn up the TV or radio volume to levels that are uncomfortably loud for others, it could indicate that they are straining to hear at normal volumes.
Challenges speaking with others
When meeting people for the first time, your loved one might have trouble hearing even when the person is speaking clearly. This can result in confusion and frustration.
Disputes because of miscommunication
Hearing loss can often lead to regular arguments 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 essential sounds
It’s a sure sign of hearing loss if your loved one doesn’t recognize essential sounds like cellphone notifications, the alarm clock, or car alarm.
Difficulty talking on the phone
Many seniors who have 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.
Social solitude
If your loved one starts steering clear of social interactions or withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, it might be because they feel self-conscious or left out due to their hearing problems.
Neglected hearing loss has a big impact
Hearing loss has a powerful effect on social interaction, emotional well-being, and physical health. Depression, solitude, and mental decline are also negative repercussions of neglected hearing loss. It’s crucial to recognize the signs early and seek treatment to help your family member maintain their quality of life.
Hearing aids play a substantial role
Hearing aids can often successfully 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 using one of these devices. The health and quality of life for an older person depend heavily upon remaining socially active with family and friends.
Studies conducted by Johns Hopkins University have linked untreated hearing loss to mental decline, memory issues, and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Regular use of hearing aids is an important step in caring for an older relative because hearing aids have been shown to prevent or even reverse many of these cognitive risks.
How you can help
If you suspect that your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, there are several ways you can assist. The first thing you should do is to encourage them to get a hearing exam from a hearing specialist. Together, you can investigate the available treatment options, including hearing aids.
It’s also important for your family member to be proactive about their hearing health. They must be honest about their hearing issues and dedicated to wearing hearing aids as recommended. While hearing aids are a substantial investment, they are essential for maintaining 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. Connecting with friends and loved ones and enjoying social interactions is vital to their mental and emotional well-being, and this will allow them to do just that. Your family member 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.
