Hearing aids for seniors
The earphones represent the best treatment for age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis. It is the easiest and most effective solution to correct this gradual hearing loss, which affects 23% of the population between 65 and 75 years old – the figure increases to 40% from the age of 75. Hearing aids allow you to recover a large part of hearing, which directly affects the quality of life of those who wear them, who do not see their social interrelationships limited in this way.
Recommended hearing aids for seniors
The hearing aid prescription will be made by a specialist after evaluating the results of a hearing check, which is very quick to do and painless. In the event that it is found that there is hearing loss, the choice of hearing aid will depend on the degree recorded, but also on the lifestyle and preferences of the person who will wear it. Hearing aids that adapt to almost all circumstances associated with the elderly and presbycusis are the behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aidswhich have an open adaptation and are the most versatile and best adapt to all lifestyles.
- It is easy to use and is recommended for older people with associated problems, whether cognitive or physical and mobility.
- Its maintenance is easier
- Generates fewer problems with earwax segregation
However, depending on the degree of hearing loss and the user’s preferences, you can also opt for in-ear or invisible hearing aids (ITE) -most recommended for mild or moderate hearing loss or those earphone-in-the-canal (RIC) hearing aidswhich are those that transmit sound inside the ear canal through an almost invisible tube (solution indicated for unilateral hearing sensitivity loss).
Fitting hearing aids for older people
The use of hearing aids, regardless of age, involves a period of adaptation. For this reason, they are always tested before formalizing the purchase, to verify that they meet the following requirements:
- Hearing aids cover the registered hearing need
- The user feels comfortable with their hearing aid
- The hearing aid is practical for you in your daily life
The hearing aid trial period is usually one month. After this period, the result of the adaptation is assessed together with the user, promoting the readjustments that are required.
Why are hearing aids so important for seniors?
Hearing aids change the lives of seniors with hearing loss. And hearing well is living well. There are numerous studies that link untreated hearing loss with an increased risk of headache and fallsas well as dementia, depression and cognitive impairment. And when we hear poorly, and even if unconsciously, we tend to limit our social relationships, to isolate ourselves, with all that that implies.
