Hearing loss affects half of all U.S. men and women over the age of 75. The loss of hearing occurs gradually, but it can lead to difficulties hearing what a medical professional recommends, when a phone or doorbell rings, or when a smoke alarm goes off.
Your dad’s hearing is getting worse. You’re not sure what to do. How will you communicate with him if his hearing loss impacts how well he can perform daily routines?
Discuss Your Concerns With Him.
Start by talking to your dad. He may be upset and refuse to talk about it. Many seniors find hearing loss to be frustrating and isolating. Make sure you’re clear that it’s your concern and love for his well-being that is driving you to want to explore options. You don’t want him to feel that his inability to properly hear you is an inconvenience.
Take Him to a Specialist.
Start by taking him to a specialist. The specialist will arrange tests to see how bad the hearing loss is. He might find he has a blockage of ear wax that’s making his hearing seem worse than it is. There may be corrective surgeries or hearing aids that can help him hear.
Speak Slowly, Clearly, and While Looking at Him
As your dad’s hearing diminishes, you need to get in the habit of making eye contact while you speak slowly, clearly, and a little louder than normal. Don’t scream or really drag out your words, however. Just make sure you’re not yelling or rushing your words. He may still have some hearing, but things are easier to pick up when a person is looking directly at him rather than from another room.
Turn off any appliances that may add background noise. Turn off a TV, ceiling fan, or air conditioner. Once your dad has heard and understood what you’re trying to tell him, you can turn the device back on.
Carry a Pad of Paper or Whiteboard.
If talking directly to your dad hasn’t helped, use a pad of paper or a whiteboard to communicate. You don’t need to write full sentences. Get main points down so that your dad understands what you’re trying to say.
Make sure your dad doesn’t become isolated. Caregivers provide companionship and can accompany him to stores and restaurants. He’ll have someone who can help him interact with others.
If you or an aging loved one needs caregiver services in Carmichael, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
Sources:
https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/age-related-hearing-loss
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