Elder Care – Tips To Help Seniors Protect Their Hearing
Hearing loss affects nearly a quarter of seniors who are over 65. When seniors are over 85 that percentage goes up to almost 90%. Experiencing some hearing loss is normal, but when hearing loss is severe, or when it is accompanied by ear pain, that’s not normal. Anytime seniors experience a sudden hearing loss or pain in their ears they should see a doctor.
For seniors that live independently, hearing loss can be scary. Many seniors are worried that hearing loss could prevent them from aging in place, but there are lots of things that seniors can do to preserve their hearing as long as possible. Elder care is available to help seniors who want to stay in their homes. With elder care to help around the house, help with shopping, and provide company, seniors can live quite well at home.
Seniors who are worried about hearing loss should start doing these things now to preserve their hearing:
Use Ear Protection
If seniors are going to be going to a loud event, like a holiday picnic where there will be fireworks, or to a concert, they should wear appropriate earplugs. If seniors are working outside where there is a lot of noise from lawn mowers and outdoor equipment, seniors should wear earplugs then too. Anytime seniors are going to be exposed to excessively loud noises they should protect their ears.
Get Regular Hearing Screenings
Many seniors don’t think about getting their hearing checked. That is, not until they notice a problem. Or when a family member tells them they need to get their hearing checked.
All seniors should be getting regular hearing screenings, at least once a year. With regular screenings seniors will be able to track any reduction in their ability to hear. And if seniors have regular hearing screenings their doctor may be able to catch hearing loss early enough to treat it.
Don’t Stick Things In Ears
No one, including seniors, should be sticking things in their ears. That includes cotton swabs. Seniors who have earwax buildup that is becoming a problem should see a doctor to have it safely drained. Seniors should never stick paper, cotton swabs, or anything else in their ears in an attempt to clean them. And don’t use over the counter ear cleaning kits. They can cause a lot of damage to the ear.
Get Treated For Any Illness That Affects The Ears
Seniors that have allergies, sinusitis, sinus infections, or other illnesses that can impact the ears should get treatment for those conditions. Not getting those illnesses treated promptly can cause long lasting damage to the ears. The ears, nose, and throat are all connected. When sinusitis, allergies, and other inflammation in the nose or sinuses causes congestion and mucus buildup that cause problems in the ears. Seniors who have really bad allergies or chronic sinusitis may need to see a specialist to get long lasting relief.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Colts Neck, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Lares Home Care 888-492-3538 or 732-566-1112.
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