2. Hearing Loss Statistics
• Hearing loss is the third most prevalent
chronic condition in older Americans, after
hypertension and arthritis.
• 66% of the population aged 65 years or
older is hearing impaired.
• 3/4 of people over age 75, and 90% of
people in supported living facilities, have
significant hearing impairment.
3. Statistics Continued
In addition, the impact of hearing loss on
society will increase not only because the
population is aging, but also because the
prevalence of age-adjusted to hearing loss
has increased significantly since the 1960’s.
4. Emotions of Hearing Loss
• Hearing loss in older patients strongly correlates
with depression.
• Anger - Paranoia
• Social Isolation
• Poor Self-Esteem
• Functional Disability
• Despite the prevalence and burden of hearing loss,
hearing impairment is under diagnosed in older
persons.
5. Hearing Loss Not Being Treated
• Only 9% of internists offer hearing testing
to patients aged 65 years or older. Hearing
loss also is under treated; only 25% of
patients with aidable hearing loss receive
hearing aids.
• This is discouraging, because strong
evidence supports that the treatment of
hearing loss improves quality of life.
6. Physiology of Hearing Loss
• The ear is particularly sensitive to signals
between 500 and 4000 Hz, which includes
the frequencies most important for speech
processing.
8. Possible Causes of Hearing Loss
• Circulatory Disorders
• Wax
• Tumors
• Otosclerosis
• Ear infections
• Metabolic Disorders
• Effects of Medications
• Family History
• Work History
9. Communication Strategies
• Face-to-Face
• Face into the light so listener can see well and
hear.
• 3-6 foot distance maximum.
• Do not speak loudly or over articulate.
• Speak normally, thought perhaps a bit slower.
• Be alert for the need to rephrase rather than repeat.
10. Communication Strategies Cont.
• Pocket Talker - looks like Walkman with
earphones an mike.
• Loops - wire around room which can drive
hearing aid telephone coil.
• Amplifier and earphones for television set.
• Amplifier for telephone.
11. Quickie Hearing Aid Course
• Offer to help person with their hearing aid.
• Take the opportunity to wipe aid of oils and
wax.
• Check sound outlet for wax and clean if
necessary.
• Turn aid all the way up - it should whistle.
• Block sound outlet - it should not whistle.
12. Course Cont.
• Change battery if needed - note shape of battery
compartment and shape of battery. DO NOT
FORCE ANYTHING!
• Encourage listener to visit physician or audiologist
if problems are suspected.
• Routine hearing test on annual basis is the norm.
• Hand-out on Dizziness.
