Unit 15
Hearing Loss in the Elderly
Hearing loss is a common problem caused by noise, aging, disease, and heredity. People with hearing loss may find it hard to have conversations with friends and family. They may also have trouble understanding a doctor’s advice, responding to warnings, and hearing doorbells and alarms.
Approximately one in three people between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss, and nearly half of those older than 75 has difficulty hearing. But, some people may not want to admit they have trouble hearing.
Older people who can’t hear well may become depressed, or they may withdraw from others because they feel frustrated or embarrassed about not understanding what is being said. Sometimes, older people are mistakenly thought to be confused, unresponsive, or uncooperative because they don’t hear well. Do not assume they are uncooperative, look for signs of hearing loss and report this as they may need hearing aids which could be of great benefit. Face the resident and if there is a 'good' ear speak clearly closer to that side. Do not raise your voice as the higher pitches tend to be the first to be lost.
Hearing and Cognitive Health
Studies have shown that older adults with hearing loss have a greater risk of developing dementia than older adults with normal hearing. Cognitive abilities (including memory and concentration) decline faster in older adults with hearing loss than in older adults with normal hearing. Treating hearing problems may be important for cognitive health. This is why ensuring the resident has earing aids in their ear and turned on and working. Sometimes batteries need to be replaced and the hearing aid needs cleaned. This is something you can do but you may need someone to show you first. Check the ears when placing the hearing aids in the ear canal. Is it full of hair and wax? This can impede hearing, report this to the nurse so special ear drops to soften the wax and then remove it can be done.
Hearing Loss Can Make It Harder To Stay Connected
People with hearing loss may find it hard to have conversations with friends and family, which can lead to less interaction with people, social isolation, and higher rates of loneliness. As the C.N.A you can help by taking a minute a few times in your shift to have a quick conversation with this resident. Facing the resident with eye contact helps by seeing your face and lips moving making it easier to understand what you are saying.