Detecting Hearing Loss in Elderly Parents: 3 Simple Ways to Help Them Hear Better

Have you noticed that an older family member occasionally struggles to hear you?

Or maybe you've found yourself frequently asking people to repeat themselves?

Don't worry, you're not alone! These situations are actually quite common. While it could be due to noise or other factors, it might also be a sign of age-related hearing loss, also known as "presbycusis."

As our parents age, it's common for them to experience hearing loss. However, many seniors are unaware of their hearing difficulties, which can lead to frustration and even social isolation. As a caring child, it's important to be aware of the signs of hearing loss and help your elderly parents hear better.


Why do we lose our hearing as we get older?

As we age, several factors can impact our hearing. Age-related changes occur in the inner ear, which can affect our ability to hear. The middle ear and nerve pathways connecting the ear to the brain can also undergo complex changes that impact hearing. Prolonged exposure to loud noises and certain medical conditions can contribute to hearing loss. Interestingly, recent research suggests that specific genes may make some individuals more prone to age-related hearing loss.

How to detect hearing loss in elderly parents?

Here’s how you can detect if your elderly parents are having difficulty hearing.

1. Pay attention to their social behavior

If you notice that your elderly parent is withdrawing from social activities or having difficulty following conversations, it may be a sign of hearing loss. They may also become more irritable or frustrated during conversations, which can be a sign of difficulty in hearing.

2. Observe their response to environmental sounds

If your parent is no longer reacting to loud noises, such as doorbells or the phone ringing, it may indicate hearing loss. You may also notice that they are turning up the volume of the TV or radio louder than usual.

1. Difficulty in understanding phone conversations.
2. Struggle to follow conversations with multiple people talking.
3. Frequently ask for repetition of what others say.
4. Need to increase TV volume significantly, leading to complaints from others.
5. Difficulty understanding speech due to background noise.
6. The perception that others mumble when speaking.
7. Trouble understanding children and individuals with higher-pitched voices.

How can I support my parents with hearing loss?

If you suspect that your parent is experiencing hearing loss, it's important to talk to them about it. Be empathetic and gentle when broaching the topic, and encourage them to see a healthcare professional for a hearing assessment.

Improving your elderly parent's quality of life is possible with the right support. Here are a few things you can do to help them hear better:

- Encourage them to wear hearing aids if recommended by a healthcare professional

- Speak clearly, slowly and directly to them, facing them when speaking

- Eliminate background noise, such as the TV or radio, during conversations

Although hearing loss is a common condition in the elderly, it doesn't have to lead to a diminished quality of life. By paying attention to your parent's behavior, observing their response to environmental sounds, and having a conversation about their hearing, you can help them detect hearing loss early and take the necessary steps to improve their hearing.

At Ananthapuri Hospitals, our dedicated team of audiologists is committed to helping you with all hearing-related problems. Whether you need expert advice or medical treatment, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Schedule your appointment today by calling +91 9400332777 or visiting our hospital in Thiruvananthapuram at Chacka, NH Bypass.

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