How to Reduce Chances For Hearing Loss In Seniors?

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According to National Institute On Deafness And Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) “Approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing”. Seniors having trouble hearing puts them at a risk for physical and emotional health. This could make them unable to understand their doctor’s advice or enjoy the company of family or friends.

Hearing loss can happen at any age but it is more common in seniors. It’s chances increase as we age. Some of the risk factors are also due to heredity, loud noise, medications, illnesses, certain occupations. Hearing loss usually happens gradually. Currently, hearing loss cannot be prevented entirely but following some simple rules and steps can minimize its chances.

What are the signs of hearing loss?

  • Difficulty understanding sounds or words
  • Avoid socializing
  • Unable to differentiate sounds against background noise
  • Turning up the volume for tv or radio regularly
  • Trouble hearing consonants
  • Frequently asking others to speak slowly and loudly

Reduce Or Prevent Hearing Loss Chances

Following are some tips to help reduce chances of age related hearing loss.

  • Wear hearing protectors to protect ears from loud noises
  • Get your hearing checked regularly. There are some ways chances for further hearing loss may be reduced.
  • Earwax or fluid buildup may block sounds to the inner ear. Talk to your doctor and they should be able to soften or remove the earwax.
  • Certain health conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure can contribute to hearing loss. Keeping your numbers in control could help reduce your chances of further hearing loss.
  • Some medications may also aid in hearing loss. Talk to your doctor if you notice hearing problem.

Hearing aids are small electronic devices that make sounds louder. If your hearing loss has advanced, your doctor may suggest you start wearing hearing aid.

According to National Institute On Deafness And Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD),

  • Among adults over 70 with hearing loss, only 1/3 of those who could benefit from hearing aids use them
  • Around 28.8 million U.S. adults could use hearing aids for their benefit
  • Men under 69 are twice as likely as women of the same age to experience hearing loss
  • About 50% of people who are 75 or older have impaired hearing