Hearing loss in aging adults can have both physical and psychological impacts. While hearing loss caused by earwax buildup or medication side effects may be temporary, other types are permanent. Here are some ways hearing loss can affect elderly people and how you can help your aging loved one better manage hearing deficits.
Decreased Interaction with Grandchildren
One of the greatest joys for grandparents is hearing their grandchildren’s first words. If your loved one is hearing-impaired, he or she may be unable to experience a grandchild’s first words or even effectively communicate with the child.
Make sure you take your loved one to an audiologist so his or her hearing can be evaluated. If no medical reason is found for the hearing loss, the audiologist may recommend hearing aids. However, if the audiology examination reveals evidence of a medical problem, your loved one may be referred to his or her primary physician for further evaluation and treatment.
If your loved one needs transportation to medical appointments, consider hiring an in-home caregiver. When researching agencies that provide elder care, families are usually looking for flexible care plans, compassionate and highly trained caregivers, and 24/7 availability. Whether you need respite care to take a break from your caregiving duties or your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, you can rely on Home Care Assistance.
Inability to Hear Favourite Television Programs
Many seniors enjoy watching television and look forward to seeing their favourite shows. Some older adults are unable to leave the home because of medical or mobility issues, and they often rely on television for entertainment. The inability to hear the television may raise the risk of depression and anxiety. Special attachments can amplify television audio, and if this doesn’t help, choosing the closed caption feature from the TV’s menu options may prove beneficial.
Decreased Ability to Hear Household Noises
If your loved one lives alone, good hearing is crucial to his or her safety. For example, if a pipe bursts, your loved one may be unable to hear rushing water sounds, and if the water supply isn’t turned off quickly, flooding could occur. Your loved one will be unable to hear cries for help if his or her spouse falls or otherwise needs help.
A complete hearing and medical examination can diagnose causes of impaired hearing so an effective treatment option can be implemented. Hearing restoration may be as simple as extracting deeply embedded earwax from the ear canal or discontinuing ototoxic medications that can contribute to tinnitus or diminished hearing.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional in-home care. Barrie families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Diminished Sense of Self-Esteem
Hearing loss may lead to low self-esteem in certain aging adults, especially when their peers have excellent hearing. When your loved one is unable to hear well, he or she may feel awkward in social situations and may start declining invitations from friends and family members.
Also, some seniors may be wary of hearing aids because they believe the devices are bulky, uncomfortable, and obvious. Let your loved one know that modern hearing aids are small, comfortable, and undetectable by other people.
Whether your loved one is living with hearing loss or another serious health condition, a professional caregiver can be beneficial in many ways. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Barrie seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. Call one of our Care Managers at 647-970-3803 to learn about our customized in-home care plans.