Seniors experience hearing loss for various reasons, including age-related changes and exposure to loud noises. No matter the reason, hearing loss can significantly lower their quality of life. The good news is that loved ones and in-home care professionals can support seniors by introducing and encouraging them to consider assistive technology to help minimize issues related to their hearing loss.
This article will explore some of the most popular options in assistive technology, why hearing loss may occur, and how to help seniors in need.
A Deeper Look at Hearing Loss in Seniors
As mentioned above, aging-related changes are among seniors’ most frequent causes of hearing loss. The cells in the ear and other body parts start to degenerate with age, which causes a progressive loss of hearing. Hearing loss may also be exacerbated by exposure to loud noises and other medical disorders, including diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Additionally, a buildup of earwax or fluid can also impair hearing by obstructing sound waves as they travel from the eardrum to the inner ear. Further damage, such as an eardrum rupture, might also be the culprit. Infection, pressure, and placing things in the ear, such as cotton-tipped swabs, can all harm the eardrum.
Assistive Technology Options
Thanks to various assistive devices on the market, seniors with hearing loss can maintain relationships with loved ones and participate fully in daily activities. The hearing aid is one of the most popular categories of assistive technology. They function by boosting noises to make them clearer to hear.
The personal sound amplifier is another assistive device that might be useful for seniors with hearing loss. These devices push the sound in a particular direction and are smaller and less expensive than hearing aids. Seniors who need assistance hearing in specific situations, such as when watching TV or holding a conversation in a noisy place, or who have slight hearing loss may benefit from them.
Finally, numerous tools might make it easier for seniors with hearing loss to interact with others. For instance, there are technologies like captioned telephones and video relay services that provide captions or sign language interpretation for phone calls, as well as amplified telephones and cell phones that make it easier to hear conversations. Other alerting gadgets like doorbells and smoke alarms vibrate or have flashing lights to notify seniors with hearing loss of critical situations.
How Can Family Members and In-Home Care Aides Provide Support?
There are many things loved ones can do to support seniors who have hearing loss. It’s crucial to be patient and understanding first and foremost. The frustration and isolation that come with hearing loss might make seniors feel ashamed or embarrassed about their condition. Discuss the issue with them, their medical team, and the in-home care team to create a treatment plan.
Making minor adjustments to communication will also help. Face seniors when speaking to them, and speak clearly. Reduce background noise as much as possible, and avoid covering the mouth or looking away when speaking. In a room with multiple people, make an effort to ensure that everyone in a group takes turns speaking and doesn’t interrupt one another.
If seniors mention ear pain or experience fluid flowing from their ears, it’s essential to talk with a doctor right away. In-home care can help monitor possible hearing issues in seniors to prevent more damage from occurring.
Source:https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hearing-loss-common-problem-older-adults#:~:text=Health%20conditions%20common%20in%20older,may%20also%20affect%20your%20hearing.
https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/assistive-devices-people-hearing-voice-speech-or-language-disorders
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If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Care Services in Medina TN please contact the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (731) 300-2300
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Jackson, Humboldt, Medina, Milan, Trenton, Brownsville, Madison County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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