Hearing Loss Symptoms: Early Signs and When to Seek Help
Hearing loss can affect people of all ages, but seniors are especially susceptible to hearing loss, whether it's from age or noise-related. This is why hearing loss symptoms are so important to recognize.
In many instances, hearing loss presents as subtle and can often go unnoticed until it becomes more severe. This can often take years, which means seniors miss crucial opportunities to prevent hearing loss from getting worse. Meanwhile, they may experience social isolation or depression if their hearing loss prevents them from taking part in the conversation.
By identifying hearing impairment indicators, steps can be taken to help older adults with hearing loss. This works to prevent cognitive and emotional decline. Keep reading to learn more about the early warning signs of hearing loss to keep yourself and your loved ones in the know.
Understanding Hearing Loss and Senior Hearing Health
Hearing loss typically falls into three categories. These include:
- Conductive
- Sensorineural
- Mixed hearing loss
When a person experiences conductive hearing loss, it may be from several factors. This includes:
- An infection
- Fluid in the middle ear (from colds or allergies)
- A buildup of excess earwax
For sensorineural hearing loss, there is some type of damage to the auditory nerve or inner ear. This might be due to age or repeated exposure to loud noises.
When a person experiences mixed hearing loss, it's often a combination of sensorineural hearing loss and conductive hearing loss. The best way to determine the cause of auditory decline is to speak with a physician or an audiologist.
Early Signs of Hearing Loss in the Elderly
If you suspect you or a loved one is experiencing hearing loss, there are certain symptoms to be mindful of. Consider the following:
Difficulty Understanding Speech
This is one of the first signs that a person is experiencing hearing loss. This might be during conversations or when watching television or movies. If you find that questions are frequently asked about the conversation or people are asked to repeat themselves, it may be time to visit an audiologist and schedule a hearing test.
When left unchecked, difficulty understanding speech can lead to feelings of frustration and possibly social isolation, so don't hesitate to consult a doctor with this early warning sign of elderly hearing loss.
Increased Radio and Television Volume
Do you find that televisions and radios in your home are louder than usual? If so, then you or your loved one may be experiencing hearing loss. Even family and friends may comment on the increased volume of electronics.
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is ringing in the ears. It can also sound like a wooshing or a rhythmic thumping called pulsatile tinnitus, which should always be checked as it can be related to blood vessel disorders.
Not everyone who experiences hearing loss has tinnitus, but the two may go hand in hand.
Social Isolation
Anyone experiencing hearing loss may find themselves socially isolated, especially if they can't understand conversations happening around them. According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, 34% of older adults between the ages of 50 and 80 report feeling isolated, so it's important to address this immediately.
An inability to participate in conversations can lead to depression. It also makes it difficult for seniors to engage in the activities and events they once enjoyed.
Sounds Are Muffled
It's common for people experiencing hearing loss to describe sounds as being distorted or muffled. They may struggle to hear different sounds clearly.
Issues Localizing Sounds
If it's difficult to localize the source of sounds or where they're coming from, it's important to visit an audiologist. This may indicate difficulties with a person's hearing.
Listening Fatigue
Constantly struggling to listen to others speak can be exhausting and frustrating. If at any time these feelings present themselves, it's time to consult a physician.
Elder Audiology: When to Seek Help
Once you recognize the signs of auditory decline in seniors, it's time to seek help from a trained audiologist. If you're unsure of what doctor to see, your physician can point you in the correct direction.
Here are some indicators that it's time to seek help from a professional:
- Your symptoms are persistent and they affect your relationships and daily routines
- You have a family history of hearing loss or other hearing impairment conditions
- You're an older adult
- You have other symptoms, such as dizziness, ear pain, fatigue, or something else (as this may require immediate medical attention)
- You're affected socially and feel isolated from friends, family, and the world around you
Any time you experience changes in health, even insignificant ones, it's imperative that you contact a doctor as soon as possible.
The Importance of Early Detection in Auditory Decline
Early intervention offers countless benefits. It can help people experiencing hearing loss by getting the appropriate type of help, giving them ample time to adjust to hearing aids. It also works in providing a better quality of life by providing a variety of treatment options.
When older adults receive early intervention, they can start enjoying an active senior lifestyle and engaging in the activities they used to love.
At the first sign of changes to your hearing -- or your loved one's hearing -- it's important to contact a physician or audiologist. Delaying treatment only compounds issues, and a hearing screening test checks for other medical factors that may be contributing to hearing loss.
Understanding Hearing Loss Symptoms in Seniors
Hearing loss symptoms are often varied. This means that they can range from mild to severe and can affect people in a variety of ways. Look for warning signs of hearing loss, including social isolation, difficulty following along with conversations, and increased volume on different electronics.
By receiving the appropriate treatment for hearing loss, seniors can start enjoying the things they love and the world around them. This includes a vibrant senior living community where they can thrive with peers.
At Discovery Commons Whittier, we offer a wide range of amenities and services for all our residents, helping them to thrive in a supportive environment. We also offer exclusive programs. Contact us today to learn more about our floor plans in Whittier, CA.