One out of every three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has at least some level of hearing loss. Although it is an extremely common problem for older adults, many people don’t recognize that they are suffering from hearing loss. One reason for that is that hearing loss typically comes on gradually so that the person doesn’t notice that it is happening. In fact, many seniors deny that they are hard of hearing. Typically, someone else notices that the senior doesn’t hear well before they do. Have you wondered if your aging relative is losing their hearing? If so, ask yourself if they have shown any of the following signs.
Trouble Hearing on the Telephone
When you call the older adult, do they often ask you to repeat yourself or respond in unexpected ways? Hearing loss can make it very hard to talk on the telephone where the senior cannot see the person’s lips, which may help them to understand what is being said.
Loud Television or Radio
Is the television or radio the senior is watching or listening to so loud that it’s giving you a headache? That’s pretty common with older adults who don’t hear well. The volume on the television creeps up as their hearing loss gets worse.
Unexpected Responses
Hearing loss can result in the older adult misunderstanding what is being said. That can cause them to respond to the conversation in an unexpected way that has nothing to do with what is being talked about.
They Ignore Alarms
When the phone rings or the oven timer goes off, does your older family member respond to it or does it take them a while to respond to the sound? This is an especially concerning sign of hearing loss since it could mean the senior wouldn’t hear the smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector.
Avoiding Social Situations
Hearing loss can make your older family member dread social situations, like a family gathering. Background noise and multiple conversations going on at one time can compound hearing loss, making it impossible to follow any conversation. As a result, the senior might prefer to just stay home.
If your aging relative is diagnosed with hearing loss, a senior care provider can help them to manage the problem. A senior care provider can remind others to use techniques that make it easier for the older adult to follow a conversation, such as sitting where the senior can see their face. Senior care providers can also assist with caring for the older adult’s hearing aid. They can clean the hearing aid and help to change the batteries.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hearing-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20373072
https://dailycaring.com/10-common-signs-of-hearing-loss-in-seniors/
If you are considering senior care in Gainesville, FL, for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts Home Care. Call today: 352-225-3727.
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