Age-related hearing loss is common, but older people don’t seek help early

TREATMENT OF HEARING LOSS

Ms Leem urged family members to encourage older people to have their hearing checked if they show signs of hearing loss.

If diseases involving the ear or hearing are detected, medical intervention will be the first step. Otherwise, a hearing aid or cochlear implant is the solution, said Dr Loo.

“Most importantly, the medical team must design a personalized plan based on the needs of the patient, the degree of hearing loss and the lifestyle,” she said.

Hearing Professionals Association President Ronald Pang said hearing aids are designed to meet diverse lifestyle needs. An elderly person with little mobility and mainly caring in a quiet home would benefit from a “basic model” which would cost “a few hundred dollars”.

Smarter hearing aids designed for active retirees cost more, but may better suppress noise or have Bluetooth functionality tied to their cellphones. Higher-end models also work more effectively against echoes and wind, Pang said.

“The more expensive premium line hearing aids, designed for working adults and those with higher expectations, can cost over S $ 7,000 each,” he said.

Beyond fitting hearing aids, it’s important to maintain and follow-up within three months of prescription, said Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist Dr Soon Sue Rene. at Farrer Park Hospital.

Dr Soon also stressed that there is a need to be more aware of hearing loss.

“Hearing is important for healthy aging. This should not be the case if you are 60 or over 60, think the hearing loss is normal and wait again for years before it becomes moderate to severe to seek help, ”he said. she declared.

“It will be a bit too late because it comes with dementia, cognitive decline and social isolation.”