Dealing with hearing loss – a chronic disability
By Lisa Evans - Published on Tuesday, 28 December 2010 11:39
Imagine trying to have a conversation and constantly having to ask your companions to repeat themselves. Or not being able to participate in a group discussion in the common room because the TV is on and six people are chatting around you. Sadly, this is the harsh reality of many Canadian seniors.
Statistics Canada calls hearing loss "the most common sensory impairment in adults over the age of 65, affecting more than 30 percent of Canadians in this age group". Hearing loss is identified as the third most prevalent chronic disability among older adults, behind arthritis and hypertension. Not only is hearing loss a physical limitation, it can also be a serious lifestyle impediment, leading to withdrawal from friends, family and social situations.
A disability that often goes unnoticed, hearing loss associated with aging could be such a gradual process that it can be difficult for caregivers to notice the symptoms. Some basic warning signs include: speaking louder than necessary, constantly asking to repeat in conversation, withdrawing from social contact, speech that seems muffled or slurred, and difficulty understanding someone speaking from a distance or conversing in areas with background noise.
Seniors suffering from hearing loss have difficulty communicating in noisy situations, in large groups and at a distance. They may have trouble hearing the radio, television or telephone. While hearing aids can help to improve patient’s communication abilities, these problems are likely to remain unrectified even with the help of a hearing aid since hearing aids work best in quiet environments with a limited number of communication partners.
The environment and the speaker can either assist or hinder someone with hearing difficulties. Here are some ideas for caregivers to improve communication with seniors suffering from hearing loss:
1 - Change the Environment
Noisy environments are an albatross for people suffering with hearing loss. Multiple conversations, background noise from heating and cooling vents, fans, running water, television and traffic can hinder an individual from hearing even in a face-to-face conversation. Being aware of physical surroundings and trying to move away or remove these sources of noise when communicating with someone who suffers from hearing loss can greatly assist them.
Rooms with echoes, such as gymnasiums, are a challenge to someone who is hard of hearing. Choose small rooms with carpets, drapes and soft furnishings to minimize the echo and turn off any distractions such as the television or radio.
2 - Grab Attention
When speaking to someone who suffers from hearing loss, it is important to get their attention before you speak by saying their name or tapping gently on their arm. Always face the person when speaking. Don't cover your mouth or speak with something in your mouth, such as gum or food.
3 - Don't Change Speaking Tone
Speak in a normal tone, not raising your voice unless you are asked to. While the first response of most individuals is to shout to someone with hearing issues, shouting can distort the sound of the voice, making it even more difficult to understand. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. If you are not understood, simplify the message - say it in a different way, or write it down.
4 - Individual vs. Group Setting
One to one communication is easier for someone suffering from hearing loss. Physical distance between the speaker and listener can be challenging for someone who is hard of hearing. The distance should be no more than six feet to allow the speaker to be both seen and heard.
Using these strategies, caregivers can help eliminate some of the most common issues that exacerbate insecurities of seniors with hearing loss.
Sources:
Public Health Agency of Ontario "Hearing loss info-sheet for seniors". http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/seniors-aines/alt-formats/pdf/publications/public/age/info/hearing-auditives/hearing-eng.pdf.
Public Health Agency of Canada. “The Chief Public Health Officer’s Report on the State of Public Health in Canada 2010”. http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/cphorsphc-respcacsp/2010/fr-rc/cphorsphc-respcacsp-06-eng.php.