Vision and hearing loss are common complaints among the senior population. These impairments can adversely affect quality of life. But caregiver intervention and targeted treatments can improve the daily lives of the elderly who suffer from either or both of these issues.

Sensory issues affect many seniors in the US. About 18 percent of seniors age 70 or over report blindness in one or both eyes and other issues with seeing. One-third of older adults complain of hearing difficulties. Nearly 9 percent of aging people experience trouble with both vision and hearing.

How do vision and hearing loss affect the elderly?

Normal, age-related sight and hearing changes are often confused with abnormal sensory changes and therefore may be dismissed. Misunderstandings frequently arise, such as when older adults living with vision problems are mistaken for being hesitant or confused in new social situations.

Similarly, aging people suffering from hearing loss may be unable to hear the nuances of conversations. As a result, their conversation partner is likely to experience frustration and impatience with the older adult. The senior in turn feels socially isolated, frustrated, and disappointed.

Seniors with vision loss may also be challenged in completing daily activities. Older adults with decreased vision engage less in leisure activities and have limited ability to independently perform the activities of daily living. Hip fractures, falls, and hospitalizations are common in these individuals.

Hearing loss comes with serious repercussions, too. Along with social isolation and depression, seniors with hearing impairments suffer an increased risk for dementia. When a dementia diagnosis is made, older adults with hearing issues experience an accelerated rate of cognitive decline.

How do caregivers support seniors with vision loss?

A well-lit home environment can prevent falls and stumbles. Add extra lighting to the stairways and the hallway leading up to the bathroom. Ensure the lighting is not glaring. Caregivers should offer their aging care recipient arm support when the latter walks to promote safety and confidence.

Contrast the colors of important objects in the home, such as the door trim and steps. These items stand out and allow seniors to differentiate between them more readily. Give the senior clear directions when they are unfamiliar with their surroundings; for instance, say, “The bathroom is up the hall.”

Increase safety in the home environment by clearing potential fall hazards, such as coffee tables with sharp corners, cords, and loose rugs. Avoid repositioning furniture, as the senior can become disoriented and fall. If the older person wears glasses, keep them clean and smudge-free.

Ease communication for seniors with vision loss by providing them with senior-friendly phones. These devices usually are designed with oversized keypad numbers for easy dialing. Similarly, provide them with books with large print; an electric magnifier aids in reading and writing.

The senior should visit an ophthalmologist who can check their vision and assess the extent of loss. The professional is able to determine the cause of vision deterioration, such as cataracts or glaucoma. Age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy are also responsible for vision loss.

How do caregivers support seniors with hearing loss?

Schedule a hearing exam with an audiologist who can detect issues early and provide an appropriate course of treatment. Early detection can prevent hearing loss from worsening. Sometimes, the cause of the hearing loss can be treated with medication or a surgical procedure, like a cochlear implant.

Hearing aids are the most familiar solution for hearing problems. The latest technologies improve the functionality of hearing aids, offering more precise amplification than ever before. Wireless-based hearing aids allow seniors to connect them with devices, like tablets and phones.

When speaking to the senior, face them closely, if possible. Speak slowly, clearly and in low tones (high-pitches are more difficult to hear). Do not shout at the older adult; while the caregiver’s voice is technically louder, shouting does not necessarily improve the situation.

Turn off background noises when conversing with the senior suffering hearing loss. Sounds from a television or radio interfere and compete with the caregiver’s speech. Try holding conversations in a quieter location, as different places may work better to improve sound quality.

Caregivers can also hold the senior’s arm or hand when speaking. As a comforting gesture, it offers the older adult a sense of connection and delivers a more personal approach when conveying a verbal message. Gentle physical touch also lets the senior know who is speaking to them.

Vision and hearing impairments affect quality of life. But caregivers can adjust their behavior and the senior’s environment to enhance communications. With the appropriate treatments and devices, older adults can still read, write, and converse, thereby staying social and active in their communities.

Elder Care from Assisting Hands

Families may become aware of the need for an in-home caregiver to help an aging loved one suffering hearing or vision loss. A compassionate elder care professional is available from Assisting Hands Home Care. We prioritize the physical, emotional, and social health of the seniors we serve.

Professional caregivers provide a comprehensive range of non-medical care services in the comfort of the senior’s home. We assist with hygiene tasks, like bathing and toileting. Caregivers shop for groceries, prepare nutritious meals, and give timely medication reminders to keep them healthy.

Transportation and escort to local destinations, like the audiologist’s or ophthalmologist’s office, is included. Our caregivers are trained to communicate with the elderly who are hard of hearing. We speak clearly and slowly and offer an arm to help them navigate the home or outdoors.

Caregivers perform light housekeeping to keep the home hygienic and remove fall hazards, like clutter, to promote safety. We’re also pleasant companions who prevent the elderly from feeling socially isolated, lonely, or depressed. Caregivers initiate conversations, play games, and take them on outings.

Seniors in Hollywood, Florida, and the surrounding communities thrive with the reliable in-home care from Assisting Hands Home Care. A licensed, bonded, and insured caregiver is ready to assist your loved one. Schedule a free in-home consult today to learn more about quality senior home care.