Hearing loss happens so gradually that seniors sometimes don’t realize there’s a problem until someone points it out. Once seniors lose a significant amount of their hearing, they may also experience issues with safety or become isolated if they cannot hear what people are saying in social situations. Addressing your aging loved one’s hearing loss is critical for his or her overall wellbeing.
Stay on Top of Hearing Exams
Most seniors need to have their hearing checked on a regular basis. Once your loved one has substantial hearing loss, he or she may need hearing tests more often. For instance, it’s common for seniors who wear hearing devices to need regular checkups to make sure the devices are functioning properly. Ask your loved one’s doctor for a recommended schedule for hearing exams, and help your loved one make it to the appointments.
Elderly 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.
Explore Options for Hearing Devices
Seniors are fortunate to have many choices among hearing devices, ranging from basic models to high-tech ones that can do amazing things such as connect to smartphones. Your loved one’s hearing specialist can recommend the best device to use. Keep in mind your loved one will go through an adjustment period while learning to use the device. Be encouraging during this time, and offer assistance with hearing aid cleaning and care.
Protect Remaining Hearing Abilities
Once hearing loss occurs, you need to preserve your loved one’s auditory abilities as much as possible. Try to reduce your loved one’s exposure to loud noises.
You should also help your parent stay on top of issues that affect hearing, such as ear infections, by seeking prompt medical attention for any symptoms. Your loved one should also avoid putting anything in his or her ears that could cause damage, such as cotton swabs.
Look for Safety Accommodations
The inability to hear is more than just annoying. It could cause your loved one to be put in dangerous situations. Your loved one may need accommodations such as a fire alarm that flashes lights to alert him or her to danger. You can also find vibrating alarms to put in your loved one’s bed to wake him or her up in the event of an emergency.
Hearing loss and other age-related conditions could make it challenging for your loved one to live alone at home safely. 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. Waterloo seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve.
Learn to Communicate Better
Talking to your loved one may be more challenging, especially if he or she is still getting used to a hearing device. Remember to take things slowly. If your loved one doesn’t understand something, try repeating it using different words. Eliminating background noise is also helpful.
As you work on your communication skills, make sure to also give your loved one plenty of chances to socialize with people who understand. With your assistance, your loved one can still maintain social connections using multiple methods of communication.
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 senior home care. Waterloo families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Call Home Care Assistance at (519) 954-2111 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.