7 Ways Aging Adults Can Prevent Hearing Loss

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Ways Older Adults Can Stave Off Hearing Loss in Barrie, ON

It’s fairly common for seniors to experience changes in their hearing abilities as they get older. These changes can result from exposure to loud noises, the use of specific medications, and poor self-care. However, there are a few ways older adults can maintain their health and prevent severe hearing loss. Following are some simple tips for protecting hearing in the golden years. 

1. Limit the Use of Ototoxic Medications

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications are toxic to the auditory system. In addition to increasing the likelihood of hearing loss, these drugs can also cause tinnitus (ringing in the ears). These drugs are classified as ototoxic medications, and they include various antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, anti-inflammatory drugs, loop diuretics, and even high doses of aspirin. Identifying ototoxic medications and then limiting their intake is often essential for preventing hearing loss.

2. Recognize & Report the Signs of Ototoxicity

Given the vast range of ototoxic medications, it’s important for seniors and their caregivers to recognize and report signs of ototoxicity immediately. This will allow doctors to recommend alternate medications that pose a lower risk of hearing loss. Some of the most common signs of ototoxicity include tinnitus, intensified tinnitus, pressure in the ears without symptoms of infection, and vertigo. 

3. Protect the Ears when Exposed to Loud Sounds

Many older adults enjoy listening to live music. However, seniors should avoid sitting too close to sound systems when attending concerts or other musical events. Elderly people should also use earplugs or other muting devices to prevent hearing loss from excessive exposure to loud music.

4. Use Headphones Instead of Earbuds

Noise exposure is one of the most common and preventable causes of hearing loss. Many headphone manufacturers have special noise-cancelling devices people can use for listening to movies, music, and other digital content without harming their ears. These units don’t exceed a specific volume level and aren’t inserted directly into the ear. As a result, there’s very little risk of damaging the auditory system when using them. 

Caring for a loved one with hearing loss can be an overwhelming task. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality home care service, Barrie Home Care Assistance can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.

5. Schedule Regular Ear Exams

Seniors should have their ears examined once or twice each year. Mild hearing loss may cause aging adults to listen to music and television at high volume levels, which could exacerbate their hearing issues. Doctors often recommend hearing aids and other assistive devices that can boost ear health. 

Senior home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.

6. Turn Down the Radio in the Car

Even listening to the car radio at high volume can have a negative impact on a senior’s hearing. Loud sounds in small, confined spaces are greatly amplified. Aging adults and their caregivers should keep the volume levels for in-car speaker systems at moderate levels. 

7. Recognize the Signs of Infection

Not all ear infections cause a high fever and intense pain. A persistent runny nose, pressure in the head, and balance issues are all possible signs of a serious inner ear infection. Having the ears checked whenever these symptoms arise can prevent ruptured eardrums and significant hearing loss. 

According to modern research, older adults with hearing impairment are susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease. Partial hearing loss may indicate the onset of memory loss or another type of cognitive decline. The days, weeks, and months following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be challenging for both seniors and their families. However, these challenges can be made less stressful with the help of caregivers trained in professional Alzheimer’s care. Barrie Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one enjoy the golden years while simultaneously managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at 647-970-3803 today.

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