Do the seniors in your house need you to shout in order to hear you? Hearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting older and elderly adults. Also, talking to friends and family becomes frustrating and embarrassing. Hearing loss in seniors can be easily corrected using hearing aids that are available in the market.
Causes of hearing loss in seniors: Age-related changes in the inner ear called Presbycusis which leads to loss of hearing.
What is Presbycusis?
Presbycusis is the loss of hearing that is caused by the natural aging of the auditory system. This loss of hearing occurs gradually in most individuals as they grow older. It starts with the inability to higher pitched sounds and gradually progresses to lower frequencies as well. It is estimated that 30-40 percent of people over 65 have a loss of hearing. One of the causes of presbycusis is changes along the nerve pathways leading to the brain. Many seniors may not realize that their hearing is diminishing because the process of loss is gradual.
Why is it important to treat hearing loss?
It is important to diagnose and treat loss of hearing as it can lead to brain damage. This happens because the brain is always too busy trying to hear. Consequently, this overload affects focus on memory and thinking. Also, parts of brain which are not used can waste away. Finally, the embarrassment of poor hearing may lead seniors to social isolation.
Signs of hearing loss in seniors:
- Often asking people to repeat themselves.
- Speaking very loudly over the phone.
- Watching TV with high volume.
- Complaining of dizziness and ringing sound in the ears.
- Having trouble understanding when children talk.
- Avoiding participating in group discussions.
Hearing Aids for Seniors
BTE Hearing aid
These Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids are available off-the-shelf and are ideally suited for elders who require simple amplification in order to hear.
Compact hearing aid (Behind-the-ear)
Compact, discreet hearing aid for seniors, designed to fit perfectly into your ear canal for ultimate comfort. Light-weight, uncomplicated and Easy to use. No need for an audiologist. Available over the counter.
In the Ear Compact hearing aid
This durable, dependable In-the-ear hearing amplifier is a discreet hearing aid for the elderly. This compact, in-the-ear hearing aid provides a sound gain of about 50 dB, is battery operated and works well in challenging environments.
In-the-ear rechargeable hearing aid
Batteries are the lifeblood of many electronic devices including hearing aids. Furthermore, to ensure the best experience, rechargeable hearing aids have become a convenient alternative for conventional hearing aids.
Hearing Aid – Behind The Ear – Cyber Sonic
Cybersonic Ear Hearing Amplifier is more durable than the average devices. Listening to soft sounds and voices is loud and clear. Also, amplifies environmental sounds for greater independence and security
- Amplifies sounds up to 40 decibels
- Weights less than 10 gms
- 6 Volume levels
- Adjusts to either ear
- Comes with a free protective case