IF you are caring for an elderly parent or relative, there would be times when you find yourself having to repeat instructions or raise your voice for them to hear you.
Hearing loss among the elderly is common, but rarely acknowledged by the individuals themselves.
Most senior citizens do not like to admit that their hearing has been affected. They view it as being weak or no longer in control of their lives.
Pantai Hospital Klang Ear Nose and Throat (otorhinolaryngology) specialist Dr Loo Lit Yee says the most common form of hearing loss is presbycusis. It is a degenerative disorder, where hearing deteriorates over time and is commonly seen in the elderly who are between 60 and 70 years of age.
It does impact daily living, but not in an abrupt manner as hearing deteriorates at a slow rate until it is noticed by another person, in most cases, their family members.
"Their close ones may notice the need to repeat conversations to convey a message or feel disturbed by the loud volume set by that person on the television set, or wonder why they are not startled even by a loud car honk."
Hearing aids offer a good solution to address this problem, but Dr Loo says just like a new piece of clothing, the hearing aid needs to "fit" the individual well and as with any new accessory, the user needs time to get comfortable with it.
"Remember, the most desirable hearing aid is one that functions well, is comfortable for daily use, and it doesn't hurt if it's aesthetically pleasing, too."
Types of Hearing Aids
Conventional Hearing Aid
The most common type, widely used and has several models.
Contralateral Routing Of Signals Hearing Aid (CROS)
Specifically used in individuals with single-side hearing loss. It essentially provides sound signals from the bad ear to the better ear and provides surround sound, overcoming the "head shadow" effect.
Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA)
Used in patients with conductive hearing loss. It delivers sound vibrations directly to the inner ear.
Hearing Aids - Dos and Don'ts
*Do get appropriate training/counselling during the trial period for the device.
*Do attend individual or group sessions for better audiologic habilitation and this will cover the device's routine use and maintenance, including battery change, knowledge of hearing aid components and storage.
*Do use the hearing aid for as long as possible daily.
*Don't use it for less than six hours daily.
*Don't attempt to fix the device yourself if you encounter problems. Leave it to the professionals.