Understanding Hearing Loss in Older Adults

Hearing loss, also known as Presbycusis, is the gradual loss of hearing that often comes with aging. It is among the most common conditions that affect older adults. Experiencing hearing impairment can complicate understanding and adhering to medical guidance, responding to alerts, and hearing essential sounds such as phones, doorbells, and any type of alarms.

The effects of hearing loss go beyond simply struggling to hear the world around you. Older adults who neglect to treat their hearing loss may experience feelings of loneliness, frustration, and depression. Untreated hearing loss has also been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk for dementia.

Many things can influence our hearing abilities as we get older. For instance, changes in the inner ear and the nerve pathway from the ear to the brain are common culprits. Exposure to loud noises over a lifetime, certain medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure, and specific genetics can also predispose people to hearing loss.

Do you or a loved one feel like you may be experiencing age-related hearing loss? Think about the following questions:

• Is it difficult to understand conversations, especially in noisy environments?
• Do you frequently ask others to repeat themselves during conversations?
• Are you turning up the volume on your devices, such as the TV or radio, louder than usual?
• Are you having trouble hearing high-pitched noises, such as doorbells or the phone ringing?
• Have family or friends expressed concern about your hearing?

If you or a loved one answers yes to any of the above, here are simple strategies to cope with hearing loss and its challenges.

Regular Hearing Screenings: Older adults need to have their hearing checked regularly to catch any changes that may be affecting them. Discovering issues early on means they have the option to take preventive measures and receive treatment sooner. Taking such a simple yet proactive step can significantly improve their hearing abilities and overall quality of life.

Hearing Aids: Hearing aids are special devices that make sounds louder to improve hearing. Nowadays, they’re made to be small, unnoticeable, and fit comfortably, making them great choices for older adults with hearing loss. Older adults or their loved ones need to chat with their doctor about picking out hearing aids that are best for their specific needs.

Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs): ALDs work alongside hearing aids to improve sound quality in certain situations. These devices, such as amplified telephones, TV systems, and personal amplifiers, are especially handy in noisy environments. They can significantly improve communication and overall hearing experience for those in challenging listening conditions.

Communication Techniques: Older adults can benefit from discovering practical and effective ways to communicate and help them engage in conversations in a way that feels more manageable. Approaches such as maintaining eye contact, minimizing background noise, and speaking clearly when engaging with them can reduce any potential hearing-related communication challenges. These easy techniques foster smoother interactions and stronger connections with others.

Visual Aids: Incorporating visual aids such as lip-reading or sign language can be beneficial during conversations, helping your loved one to comprehend. Using these cues not only enhances understanding but also promotes more meaningful conversation. By embracing this approach, older adults will always feel included and engaged in discussions, strengthening bonds, and enriching social interactions. It’s another simple yet powerful way to ensure everyone feels valued and heard despite the challenges they may be experiencing.

Encourage Healthy Habits: Everything your body consumes makes an impact. Lifestyle choices like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged headphone use, and lack of physical activity can contribute to hearing loss over time. Supporting your loved one by including manageable exercise into their routine, enriching their diet with nutritious foods, and ensuring proper sleep can positively impact their hearing health.

While these valuable tips aim to ease many hearing difficulties you or a loved one may be facing, it’s important to always seek guidance from a doctor or healthcare professional to ensure you’re on the right path. No matter what changes you may be experiencing, Gloria Dei’s Personal Care and Memory Care at The Park Communities are always here to assist you and your loved one in providing the essential care needed. Visit our website to find out more today!