Some hearing loss is normal for seniors as they get older. About one-third of seniors will experience some level of normal hearing loss. But, seniors shouldn’t just assume that any hearing loss they experience is age-related. There are lots of medical conditions that can be associated with hearing loss. Any senior who experiences sudden hearing loss or profound hearing loss should get seen by their doctor. And seniors should have yearly hearing tests done to check their hearing. Seniors with veterans care at home should make sure their veterans care at home provider knows if they are having trouble hearing.
Seniors who are aging at home can have their quality of life and their safety impacted by hearing loss. It’s important that seniors recognize and talk about any hearing loss they notice because they may need adaptive equipment like fire alarms that flash as well as play a loud noise or camera doorbells that allow seniors to see when someone is at the door. Veterans care at home providers can also let family members know if they notice that a senior seems to be having trouble hearing.
Some things that both seniors and their family members should know about aging and hearing loss are:
The Common Causes of Hearing Loss
Hearing loss can result from various factors, including age-related changes in the inner ear (presbycusis), exposure to loud noise, genetics, ototoxic medications, infections, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Identifying the underlying cause of hearing loss can help guide appropriate treatment and management strategies.
The Types of Hearing Loss
There are three primary types of hearing loss: conductive, sensorineural, and mixed. Conductive hearing loss occurs when there is a problem with the outer or middle ear, such as earwax buildup or fluid accumulation. Sensorineural hearing loss involves damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve and is often age-related or noise-induced. Mixed hearing loss is a combination of both conductive and sensorineural components.
The Symptoms of Hearing Loss
Seniors and their families should be aware of the common signs and symptoms of hearing loss, including difficulty understanding speech, asking others to repeat themselves frequently, turning up the volume on the television or radio, withdrawing from social activities, and experiencing ringing or buzzing sounds in the ears (tinnitus). If your senior parent is exhibiting these signs, having their hearing tested is a good idea.
The Impact of Hearing Loss on Communication
Hearing loss can significantly impact the way a senior communicates. Hearing loss makes it challenging to engage in conversations, follow verbal instructions, or participate in social activities. Seniors may be frustrated or embarrassed by their inability to hear clearly or the need to ask people to repeat themselves constantly. That can make seniors avoid social outings or being around people which can lead to loneliness and isolation.
The Importance of Hearing Screening
Regular hearing screenings are essential for early detection of hearing loss and prompt intervention. Seniors should undergo hearing evaluations as part of their routine healthcare visits, especially if they experience any signs or symptoms of hearing impairment. Family members can encourage and support seniors in scheduling and attending hearing screenings.
The Treatment Options
The treatment options for hearing loss depend on the type and severity of the condition. For conductive hearing loss, treatments may include earwax removal, medication for ear infections, or surgical procedures such as tympanoplasty or stapedectomy. Sensorineural hearing loss is typically managed with hearing aids or cochlear implants to amplify sound and improve hearing abilities. Assistive listening devices, such as amplified telephones or alerting systems, can also help seniors with hearing loss communicate more effectively.
The Best Prevention Strategies
While some causes of hearing loss, such as age-related changes, are inevitable, seniors can take steps to prevent hearing loss or minimize its progression. Seniors should avoid exposure to loud noise, use earplugs in noisy environments, and get regular hearing screenings.
Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hearing-and-hearing-loss/hearing-loss-common-problem-older-adults
https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/a/age-related-hearing-loss-presbycusis.html
If you or an aging loved one are considering Veterans Care at Home Services in Knoxville TN please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (865) 539-5224
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Knoxville, Old City, Fort Sanders, Old Sevier, Edgewood, North Knoxville, Forest Heights, Sequoyah Hills, Knox 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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