When we think of hearing loss, we often assume sounds are less intense or duller for the individual. However, hearing loss manifests in different ways. In addition to difficulty hearing conversations, your aging loved one may experience buzzing or ringing in the ears. If you notice your loved one is having difficulty hearing, constantly asks you to repeat yourself, or seems to withdraw from regular conversations, make an appointment with a hearing specialist, who can identify the cause of the issue and recommend the best options to restore as much of your loved one’s hearing as possible. Here are a few of the common treatments for hearing loss your loved one’s doctor or hearing specialist may recommend.
Hearing Aids
Hearing aids are perhaps the most common remedy for seniors experiencing hearing loss. These come in a variety of forms, including styles that rest outside the ear and those that go inside the ear and are barely detectable. Both analog and digital hearing aids are also available. One new type of hearing aid, called a middle ear hearing aid, is actually implanted in the bones in the middle ear. This may be helpful if your loved one has severe hearing loss that’s specific to the middle ear.
Hearing loss and other age-related conditions could make it challenging for your loved one to live alone at home safely. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Tucson, AZ, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity.
Implants
Cochlear implants are devices designed for those who don’t benefit from traditional hearing aids. Rather than amplifying sound like a hearing aid does, these implants stimulate the auditory nerve. Not all people with hearing loss are candidates for cochlear implants, but they may help those with specific types of severe hearing damage.
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 senior care. Trust Home Care Assistance to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
Assistive Devices
Assistive devices are designed to help seniors with hearing loss hear better in specific situations. For example, some assistive devices help seniors hear better when on the telephone or when watching television. Others amplify important sounds in the home, like doorbells, smoke alarms, and other key forms of alerts.
In some cases, hearing loss can also put your loved one’s safety at risk. The inability to hear what’s going on around him or her can make certain activities of daily living dangerous, such as cooking. If this is a problem, it’s best for your loved one to have in-home help, whether it’s provided by you, other family members, or a professional caregiver.
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 homecare. Tucson families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at (520) 276-6555.