Hearing loss is one of the most common concerns amongst family caregivers who are taking care of their elderly loved one. If an elderly person can’t hear very well, it can affect the communication and relationship they have with their family members. The good news is that learning more about hearing loss in the elderly can help you and their personal care at home providers to better care for them.
Different Types of Hearing Loss
There isn’t just one type of hearing loss. In fact, there are numerous types and many different causes of hearing loss, as well. Some of the different types of hearing loss include:
- * Sensorineural hearing loss (caused by nerve damage to nerves or inner ear – the ones that send sounds to the brain)
- * Conductive hearing loss (caused when there is a blockage of sound waves)
Sensorineural hearing loss can be caused by ear injuries, tumor in the ear, ear infections, or loud noises. Conductive hearing loss usually only affects one ear. Often it is caused by a buildup of earwax, ear disease, ear infections, or a blown eardrum.
If your elderly loved one is experiencing any type of hearing loss and they don’t have a diagnosis yet, you or a personal care at home provider can take them to see a doctor. Tests can be performed to determine the type of hearing loss and to find out which treatments would be best.
Hearing Loss Treatment Options
Does your elderly loved one have hearing loss? If so, there are numerous treatments their doctor may order to help. Some of the most common hearing loss treatment options include:
- * Antibiotics for treating ear infections
- * Surgery to remove a tumor
- * Surgery to repair ear damage
- * Hearing aids or other hearing assistance devices
The specific treatment that is needed for hearing loss varies from case to case. Your elderly loved one will need to see their doctor to find out which treatments would work in their situation. The treatments are different depending on the type of hearing loss, the severity of hearing loss, and some other factors, as well. If the treatment plan consists of regular doctor’s appointments, you can have personal care at home providers drive your elderly loved one to those appointments.
Personal Care at Home Aides can Fill in
There are millions of senior citizens who live with hearing loss. If your elderly loved one has this issue, it may take time for them and you to get used to it. You both may need to be patient with one another. If needed, you can take a break, so you don’t get too overwhelmed. You can have personal care at home providers fill in for the meantime.
Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hearing-loss-common-problem-older-adults