As you get older, it's easy to think that losing your vision or hearing is just part of aging.
While some changes are normal, ignoring these problems can seriously hurt your quality of life.
Take driving for instance. Who wants to give up their licenses before their time?
The good news is that there are many medical advancements to help with these issues. Let's talk about vision and hearing loss, how to spot the warning signs, and what you can do to keep your senses sharp so you can keep enjoying life.
Vision Loss: A Common Problem
Vision loss usually happens slowly, so you or your family might not notice how much your eyesight has worsened. It's important for caregivers to watch for signs that vision is becoming a problem, like:
- Squinting or tilting your head to see better
- Bumping into things or knocking objects over
- Stopping activities that need good vision, like reading or writing
- Missing objects when reaching for them
- Falling or walking hesitantly
These signs can point to serious eye problems like macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy. If left untreated, poor vision can lead to depression, withdrawal, and inactivity.
Staying Safe with Vision Loss
Creating a safe environment is crucial if your vision isn't what it used to be. Here are some key steps to keep you safe and improve your quality of life:
- Mind the Glare: Make sure your home is well-lit but without glare. Use special lamps and cover reflective surfaces.
- Task-Specific Lighting: Use direct lighting for activities like reading or cooking. Under-counter lights can help in larger areas.
- Consistent Lighting Levels: Avoid big differences in lighting. Keep room lighting steady to prevent disorientation.
- Fall Prevention: Use nightlights in key areas and get rid of clutter to avoid falls.
- Household Organization: Keep important items in the same places. Use tactile and visual aids to help you navigate.
- Contrasting Colors: Use contrasting colors to make objects and surroundings easier to see.
- Magnification Devices: From simple magnifiers to advanced electronic aids, these tools can help you see better for various tasks.
- Low Vision Specialists: These experts offer personalized solutions, including mobility training and access to low vision aids. They can make a big difference in managing vision loss.
Stay active and engaged, and talk openly about any challenges or symptoms you're experiencing.
⭐⭐ You would be shocked at the tools a low vision specialist can offer you and most are covered under Medicare.
Hearing Loss: An Overlooked Issue
Hearing loss is also common as you age. About 20% of American adults experience some degree of hearing loss, and nearly half of those over 65 do too. Hearing loss can range from having trouble hearing high-pitched sounds to complete deafness. Causes include genetics, diseases, injuries, certain medications, or loud noise exposure.
Presbycusis is the term for age-related hearing loss and happens because of changes in the inner ear or nerve issues. Tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, is also common among older adults, often caused by loud noise exposure or other health problems.
Types of Hearing Loss
There are two main types of hearing loss:
- Sensorineural Hearing Loss: This happens due to damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve and is usually permanent.
- Conductive Hearing Loss: This happens when sound waves can't reach the inner ear, often because of earwax, fluid, or eardrum issues. This type is often treatable with medical or surgical intervention.
Do You Have Hearing Loss?
If you're concerned about hearing loss, take this quick quiz. If you answer "yes" to three or more questions, it's time to see a doctor:
- Do you struggle to hear on the telephone?
- Is it tough to hear with background noise?
- Do you find it hard to follow conversations with multiple speakers?
- Do you need to focus intensely to understand what's being said?
- Do people seem to mumble or speak unclearly?
- Do you often misunderstand others and respond incorrectly?
- Do you ask people to repeat themselves frequently?
- Do you struggle with women's and children's voices?
- Do people complain that you play the TV too loudly?
- Do you hear a constant ringing, roaring, or hissing sound in your ears?
- Do certain sounds seem excessively loud to you?
If you nodded "yes" to three or more questions, it's better to be safe than sorry.
⭐⭐ Costco is the easiest place to get your hearing tested. Make an appointment and be in and out in 20 minutes. Seeing a doctor can prevent further problems.
Keep driving!
Don't let vision and hearing loss steal your joy and independence. Recognize the signs, seek medical help, and take steps to create a safe and supportive environment. With the right care and attention, you can continue to enjoy the sights and sounds that make life vibrant and fulfilling.
