Hearing loss in the elderly isn’t just about turning up the volume; it’s about navigating a world that gradually sounds more distant. According to the Deafness Forum Australia, up to 80% of Australians aged over 70 have some hearing loss. This increases to around 85% in residential aged care. However age-related hearing loss (presbycusis) is not an inevitable part of normal ageing. As we age, a lifetime of noise exposure (sociocusis) can catch up with people. If you’ve ever found yourself repeating sentences, noticing loved ones struggling to catch every word or having the television sound up really loud, you might be witnessing the effects of hearing loss in the elderly.
The challenge of hearing loss in the elderly
Imagine listening to your favourite song, but the melody seems muffled, or holding conversations where every word feels like a puzzle. That’s the experience of many older people battling hearing loss. The world can lose its clarity, leaving individuals feeling isolated, misunderstood and lonely. It can also leave those around them frustrated and annoyed, often having to repeat themselves.
Tips for better communication
Be patient
While it might be frustrating, especially if Mum or Dad has hearing aids but won’t wear them, remember to breathe and be patient. You getting upset isn’t going to improve the situation.
Face-to-Face Interaction
When conversing with someone experiencing hearing loss, get their attention before starting the conversation. Then ensure you’re facing them directly. This allows them to lip-read and pick up non-verbal cues, enhancing comprehension.
Speak clearly, not loudly
Shouting doesn’t equate to clarity. Instead, articulate your words distinctly and at a moderate pace. Avoid mumbling or covering your mouth while speaking.
Minimise background noise
Background chatter can drown out important sounds for those with hearing loss. Choose quieter environments if they are available, or move away from noisy areas during conversations.
Use visual aids
Incorporate visual aids like gestures or writing down key points to supplement verbal communication. This provides additional context and reinforces understanding. If you’re speaking with them over technology, consider activating the transcription functions on Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
More tips are available here.
Caring for older people with hearing loss
This 27-minute video is from Deafness Forums Australia and is a training module for aged care workers who care for people with hearing loss. This is useful for the children of ageing parents too – not just aged care workers. Note that it a little dated with some of the technology, but the principles are generally the same – who knew that using a form of lubricant could help with installing hearing aids?
Creating hearing-friendly environments
Consider the impact of environmental factors on hearing. Well-lit spaces facilitate lip-reading, while minimising echo and reverberation improves clarity. Implementing simple adjustments like installing carpeting or using curtains can absorb excess noise, creating a more comfortable atmosphere for those with hearing impairments.
Improving hearing for the elderly
For individuals grappling with hearing loss, exploring assistive devices like hearing aids can significantly enhance auditory experiences. However, acceptance and patience are vital during the adjustment period. Audiologists play a crucial role in recommending suitable devices and providing ongoing support. Your first step is seeing your GP, however a GP referral is not necessary to apply for government funded services – see below.
Getting government-funded support for hearing services
The Hearing Services Program is a Commonwealth funded program that helps people manage their hearing loss, but providing access to subsidised hearing services and devices.
Who is eligible for the Hearing Services Program?
There are two types of programs, with the Voucher Scheme being the most relevant for older people. You are eligible for the voucher scheme if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident or live on Norfolk Island, are aged 21 years or older, and are:
- a pensioner concession card holder or their spouse
- a Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) Gold Card holder or their spouse
- a DVA White Card holder (hearing-specific conditions) or their spouse
A Commonwealth Seniors Health Card does not provide eligibility for the program – you have to already be receiving Government benefits.
What does the Hearing Services Program cover?
Services you can get include:
- Hearing assessments – find out whether you have a hearing issue and what management options are available. Learn more about hearing assessments
- Device fitting – have a hearing device properly fitted
- Follow-up appointments – check that everything is working as it should
- Device maintenance – manage the costs of looking after your hearing device
- Extra rehabilitation – find out whether you can get extra support
- Specialist hearing services – find out whether you can access specialist hearing services under the Community Service Obligations (CSO)
- Annual reviews – have your hearing needs reviewed once a year.
You can receive one device fitting and one hearing assessment every five years, unless your circumstances change and you need another one sooner.
How do you apply for the Hearing Services Program?
There are three ways to apply for the program.
- Using the online form – https://www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/hearing-services-program-apply-online It only takes a few minutes. You just need to have your Centrelink reference number or Department of Veterans’ Affairs number
- Apply through a provider
You can apply through a service provider by:
- using the Government’s local provider directory to find a provider near you
- calling them to ask them to apply on your behalf – they might ask you to come in to go through the application with you.
Your provider will tell you straight away whether your application is successful.
- Apply by post or email, complete the application form
- To apply by post, print the form and post it to
Mail Drop Point 113
GPO Box 9848
CanberraACT 2601
Australia - or email it to hearing@health.gov.au for processing.
Paper applications can take 3 to 4 weeks to process. Any missing information can cause further delays, so be sure to include all the required information.
If you have any questions and want to speak to someone, you can call the Department of Health and Aged Care Hearing Services Program information line on 1800 500 726.
In a world buzzing with activity, let’s not forget how hard it can be for older people with hearing loss. We can acknowledge the challenges faced by older adults with hearing loss, and actively work to care for and accommodate their needs. It will make a much more pleasant environment for us all.
Some useful links to help with hearing loss in the elderly
How to find a Hearing Services Program provider – https://www.health.gov.au/resources/apps-and-tools/hearing-services-program-locate-a-provider
Carers’ Circle on how to better communicate with out ageing parents – https://carerscircle.com.au/2020/12/28/how-to-better-communicate-with-our-ageing-parents/
Carers’ Circle on stubborn older parents and how to deal with them – https://carerscircle.com.au/2020/07/20/stubborn-older-parents-and-how-to-deal-with-them/
Carers’ Circle on top 10 tips to help manage as a carer – https://carerscircle.com.au/2022/10/21/top-10-tips-to-help-manage-as-a-carer/
Carers’ Circle great reminder to check in on our ageing parents – https://carerscircle.com.au/2023/09/13/ruok-day-a-great-reminder-to-check-in-on-our-ageing-parents/
Carers’ Circle on teaching ageing parents to use a smartphone – https://carerscircle.com.au/2020/01/09/teaching-parents-to-use-a-smartphone/
Deafness Forum Australia has free resources for staff implementing an effective hearing assistance program, family carers and volunteers who support people with hearing loss in the community – https://www.deafnessforum.org.au/resources/training-resources-in-hearing-assistance-in-aged-care-services-and-hospitals/
Hearing Services Program funds service providers to provide hearing services – including assessments, rehabilitation and devices – to eligible Australians with hearing loss – https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/hearing-services-program/about
Photo credit to Elderly woman wearing a hearing aid from Rawpixel.
