Hearing Loss Solutions for Seniors: Enhancing Quality of Life
The National Institute on Aging says that around 33% of older adults have hearing loss; if you don't, then don't be relieved just yet. As you get older, the chance of developing hearing loss increases, and this can impact your quality of life.
Before this happens, it's important that you understand this subject. That way, you'll know which hearing loss solutions to seek out.
Keep reading this article to find out what the common causes of hearing loss are, what solutions are available, and what other adjustments you can make in your daily life.
Common Causes of Hearing Loss in Seniors
Before we look at auditory health solutions, you should first understand the different causes of hearing loss. Each one will have its own set of treatments.
The first is age-related hearing loss, or presbycusis. It's gradual, and it often affects both ears equally.
The second is noise-induced hearing loss, which can come from long-term exposure to loud noises. As a result, your inner ear gets damaged.
The third is ototoxic medications, which are drugs that can cause damage to the inner ear. Some examples include:
- Pain relievers
- Antibiotics
- Chemotherapy
- Antimalarial drugs
- High blood pressure drugs
- Diabetes drugs
Medical conditions themselves can cause hearing loss, too. For example, high blood pressure and diabetes can impact your hearing, as can their medications.
Lastly, ear infections and fluid buildup are on the list as well.
Types of Hearing Loss
There are three types of hearing loss:
- Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL): Damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve
- Conductive hearing loss: Blockages or structural issues in the outer or middle ear
- Mixed hearing loss: Combination of SNHL and conductive hearing loss
Now that you understand the common cause of hearing loss in seniors and the types of hearing loss that can occur let's look at what hearing loss solutions you can utilize.
Hearing Aids
Senior hearing aids are commonly used since they're easily accessible. In fact, there are FDA-approved over-the-counter hearing aids available for mild to medium hearing loss.
There are four types of hearing aids:
- Behind-the-ear (BTE): Good for moderate to severe hearing loss
- In-the-ear (ITE): Good for mild to moderate hearing loss
- Receiver-in-canal (RIC) / receiver-in-the-ear (RITE): Good for various levels of hearing loss
- Completely-in-canal (CIC) / invisible-in-canal (IIC): Not for severe hearing loss
The last two are small and discreet, making it ideal for anyone who wants to hide their hearing loss. All types amplify sounds, and advanced models can reduce background noises. Regardless, these aids can be customized for differing hearing needs.
Cochlear Implants
Seniors who have severe hearing loss should get cochlear implants, especially if hearing aids don't help them. These are small devices that are surgically implanted into the inner ear. They directly stimulate the auditory nerve and can restore sound perception, which allows you to have a relatively normal life, whether you're still living independently at home or are receiving personal care for the elderly.
The drawback is that the patient has to go through surgery, which also means a rehabilitation period. Cochlear implants are also significantly more expensive than hearing aids, although both are often covered by insurance.
Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)
Some people think that hearing aids and ALDs are synonymous, but they're actually not. There are specific types of ALDs used for various situations, which can vastly boost someone's quality of life.
The first is personal amplifiers. As the name suggests, these are small portable devices that can amplify sounds so you can hear them better.
There are also TV listening systems. You can use either wireless headphones or sound amplifiers for clearer audio.
People can get captioned telephones, too. These display spoken words as text, so you don't have to strain your ears.
Lastly, hearing loop systems are installed in public spaces such as theaters or churches to improve hearing in the elderly and others who are hearing impaired. These enhance the sound quality for hearing aid users.
Medical and Surgical Treatments
There are some cases where medical or surgical treatments are warranted to treat hearing loss.
The simplest is earwax removal. It's common to have blocked ear canals, which can cause temporary hearing loss. A simple earwax removal process can then restore hearing.
Some people lose their hearing because of infections, and this can be easily fixed too. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs as an effective form of treatment.
Otherwise, if you have conductive hearing loss, you may have to go through surgery. For instance, a tympanoplasty (eardrum repair) or stapedectomy (for otosclerosis) can improve your hearing.
Lifestyle and Communication Strategies
Assistive devices, medications, and surgery are only one part of the equation. With some lifestyle and communication tips for hearing loss, you can see a huge difference in your life.
Protect the hearing you have left by using earplugs in noisy environments and lowering the volume when watching TV or listening to the radio. Also, avoid ototoxic medications and ask your doctor for alternatives.
When communicating with others, have them face you and speak slowly and clearly. Reduce background noise so you can fully focus on the conversation. Use text-based communication if you must be in a noisy environment.
If you're still finding things difficult, then moving into a personal care community can be beneficial. In the retirement community, you'll receive assistance from qualified professionals while maintaining a semi-independent lifestyle.
Explore These Hearing Loss Solutions
While losing your hearing can be disheartening, it doesn't necessarily mean you'll lose connections with your loved ones or the world. Now you've learned about the various hearing loss solutions currently available, so you can pick the one best for your situation.
With the right hearing devices, medical treatments, and other lifestyle adjustments, you can maintain your independence. And if you're struggling afterward, then perhaps look into a personal care community to get peace of mind under capable hands.
Contact us today if you're interested in hearing more about personal care for seniors. Allegheny Place Personal Care is a retirement community in Pittsburgh that provides comprehensive and compassionate care. We offer independence with assistance.