**Houston**: Dr. Angela Peng highlights crucial indicators of hearing loss in seniors, urging families to observe signs like social withdrawal. She advocates for gentle conversations about hearing health and suggests professional assessments, emphasising accessible solutions including hearing aids and communication strategies to enhance understanding.
Hearing health is a vital aspect of overall wellness, especially as individuals age. Dr. Angela Peng, an otolaryngologist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, has identified several indicators of potential hearing loss that families and friends should be aware of. Among the signs are a noticeable disengagement during conversations, a tendency to isolate oneself from group discussions, and a reluctance to participate in loud environments, where multiple voices and background noise can make it difficult to hear.
Dr. Peng notes that these behaviours are particularly common among seniors, as hearing tends to decline with age. In social settings, individuals with hearing loss may struggle to follow conversations, leading to social withdrawal or frustration. To address concerns about a loved one’s hearing, Dr. Peng suggests approaching the subject gently and encouraging them to visit an audiologist or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) physician for an assessment.
Audiologists conduct various hearing tests to determine a person’s ability to hear sounds and differentiate between words. Should the tests reveal difficulties, a referral to an ENT specialist may be necessary to investigate any underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to the hearing issues. Dr. Peng emphasizes that solutions for hearing loss are readily available. “Hearing aids are appropriate for the first signs of hearing loss, but if the hearing worsens, we might consider a cochlear implant, which requires surgery,” she stated in a Baylor news release.
In addition to the technological aids available, Dr. Peng offers practical communication strategies for engaging with individuals experiencing hearing difficulties. In busy gatherings, moving conversations to quieter areas can significantly reduce background noise interference. Speaking more slowly and enunciating words can also improve clarity, as no amount of volume increase will assist if the individual struggles to discern the words being spoken.
An understanding of ear anatomy and function is essential in appreciating hearing health. The human ear has evolved to be particularly efficient in capturing sound waves, with its unique shape aiding in sound localisation and amplification. Earwax, or cerumen, plays a crucial role in maintaining ear health by trapping dust and debris and preventing infections.
Furthermore, lifestyle choices and environmental factors can greatly impact hearing health. Stress has been identified as a possible contributor to hearing difficulties, while relaxation techniques may help mitigate some of these effects. Global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have also been linked to increased reports of hearing issues, owing in part to the heightened levels of stress and changes in routine.
The importance of regular ear check-ups by regulated hearing professionals cannot be overstated. With the potential risks associated with improper earwax removal, techniques such as aural microsuction are recognised for their effectiveness and safety. This method allows for the careful removal of earwax without risking injury to the ear canal, offering a preferable alternative to traditional syringing procedures.
Understanding hearing health and the factors influencing it is essential for individuals as they navigate potential changes in their auditory function. Regular consultations with hearing professionals and awareness of the signs of hearing loss can lead to timely interventions and improved quality of life.
Source: Noah Wire Services
