April 8, 2019 | Prevention of Illness and Management of Chronic Conditions
Hearing loss is surprisingly common among older adults, with an estimated 33% of people between the ages of 65 and 74 suffering from this problem. Aging can contribute to these issues, as well as genetics, noise, and disease.
Hearing Problems Faced by Older Adults
Poor hearing in older adults isn’t only an inconvenience, but it can have a ripple effect on many aspects of life. When someone is experiencing hearing loss, they find it hard to hold conversations with family and friends. Additionally, hearing loss can increase the risk of depression, isolation, and even dementia.
Sometimes, a person suffering from poor hearing feels embarrassed or frustrated because they can’t understand what other people are saying. Friends and family might mistakenly think that the person is uncooperative, unresponsive, or confused when really the problem is with the person’s hearing.
Is it Time to Get Your Hearing Checked?
When hearing problems are ignored or left untreated, the issues will get worse with time. If you suspect that you have a hearing problem, then it is essential to visit a doctor for expert advice and treatments.
Signs of hearing loss include:
- Difficulty hearing when talking on the telephone
- It is hard to follow conversations when two or more people are participating
- There is often a need to ask people to repeat their comments
- Turning up the TV or radio to a point where other people complain about the noise
- Unable to hear due to background noise
- The perception that other people are mumbling
Technologies to Help with Hearing
The recommended treatment plan will vary depending on the severity and type of hearing loss that you are experiencing. Some treatments will work better than others. Available treatment options include:
- Hearing Aids: Small, electronic devices worn behind or in your ear, helping to amplify sounds.
- Assisted Listening Devices: Certain devices can be used to amplify the sounds coming through a cell phone or tablet. Additionally, closed circuit systems can be used in public locations, such as auditoriums, theaters, and more.
- Cochlear Implants: These implants are placed in the inner ear and are often used when the hearing loss is severe.
Other treatment options include lip-reading training or even medications in some cases. If you need help finding the right medical support for your hearing loss, then our team is here to assist. Contact us at Windward Life Care.