Did you know hearing loss is the third most commonly reported problem among seniors? More than seven million Canadians are affected by hearing loss, and with the number of seniors in the country continuing to grow, more older adults are living with diminished hearing. Does your aging loved one have difficulty hearing? Here are some of the main reasons for hearing loss among seniors and how families can move forward to ensure high-quality care.
When seniors are experiencing hearing loss and could use some extra help at home to remain safe and comfortable, a home caregiver may be the ideal option. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of in-home care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Possible Causes of Senior Hearing Loss
Although doctors don’t fully understand why hearing changes with age, there are several theories as to why this happens:
- Genetics – Hearing loss seems to run in families. If only one person in the family has a hearing problem, it’s not considered genetic. However, if more than one family member develops hearing loss, doctors generally agree it’s due to a genetic predisposition.
- Exposure to loud noises – Excessive loud noise over the years is also one of the top reasons hearing decreases with age. For instance, those who have been musicians, worked in airports, or performed construction are at higher risk for hearing loss as the result of being exposed to years of intense noise.
- Medical complications – Infections, strokes, heart problems, head injuries, and even some medications have been noted as causes of hearing loss. Seniors who are experiencing changes in their hearing should consult with their doctors to review past or ongoing medical problems and medications to see if either may be an underlying cause.
Caring for an aging adult with hearing loss can be challenging, but compassionate help is available. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Oakville, ON, Home Care Assistance can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home.
Effects of Hearing Loss on Senior Wellbeing
Loss of hearing is often linked to social withdrawal among seniors. Older adults who are unable to hear clearly or as well as they used to may feel cut off from family and close friends. While early reactions to this are often frustration and anger, over time, not being able to engage with others can lead to social, emotional, and behavioural issues. If you find you and your loved one are arguing more or he or she becomes angered more easily, schedule an appointment with the doctor to see if hearing loss is a problem. With today’s advancements in technology, hearing aids and other assistive devices may be able to restore a senior’s hearing ability as well as his or her confidence and wellbeing.
If hearing loss has made it difficult for your loved one to accomplish certain daily activities, consider hiring a home caregiver to help. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality elder care. Oakville families trust Home Care Assistance to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. If you need professional at-home care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (905) 337-1200.