Summer is a time for family gatherings, laughter-filled barbecues, and memory-making with loved ones. But what happens when one of your parents seems more withdrawn, confused, or quiet during these special events?
It may not be due to age alone, it could be age-related hearing loss.
At Eldorado Hearing, we often hear from adult children who first notice their parent’s hearing difficulties during the summer months. Whether it’s a backyard party or a vacation trip, noisy environments and group conversations can bring underlying hearing issues to light.
In this article, we’ll answer common questions about how to recognize age-related hearing loss, why it often becomes more noticeable in summer, and what you can do to help your parent stay connected and confident.
What Is Age-Related Hearing Loss?
Q: What exactly is age-related hearing loss?
A: Also called presbycusis, age-related hearing loss is the gradual decline in hearing that occurs as people age, usually starting in the late 50s or early 60s and becoming more noticeable over time. It typically affects both ears and especially impacts the ability to hear high-pitched sounds, like children’s voices, birds chirping, or conversations in noisy settings.
Q: Is it common?
A: Yes. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, approximately 1 in 3 adults aged 65–74 has hearing loss. That figure rises to 1 in 2 by age 75. Despite how common it is, hearing loss often goes unrecognized, or unacknowledged, by those experiencing it.
Why Is Hearing Loss More Noticeable in Summer?
Q: What makes summer a time when hearing issues stand out?
A: Summer involves more social interaction, often in noisy or outdoor settings. Background sounds like wind, laughter, music, or clanging dishes can make it hard for someone with hearing loss to follow conversations. When your parent is surrounded by these distractions, the brain works overtime to fill in the gaps, causing fatigue, confusion, or withdrawal.
Family vacations, poolside chats, and large gatherings also feature multiple speakers, overlapping voices, and environmental noise that overwhelm someone struggling to hear. That’s often when loved ones first realize something may be wrong.
What Are the Signs My Parent Might Have Hearing Loss?
Q: What are the subtle or early signs of hearing loss I should watch for?
A: Here are some key behaviors to look out for, especially during summer events:
- Asking “What?” or “Can you repeat that?” frequently
- Smiling or nodding in conversations but not participating
- Turning the TV or music up louder than others prefer
- Struggling to follow group conversations, especially in noisy places
- Seeming withdrawn, quiet, or uninterested in social events
- Complaining about people “mumbling” or “talking too fast”
- Not responding when called from another room
- Complaints of ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Q: What if my parent insists they can hear just fine?
A: Denial is common. Many older adults compensate without realizing it, using lip reading, body language, or context clues to get by. They may feel embarrassed or fear stigma from using hearing aids. It’s important to approach the subject with empathy and care.
How Does Untreated Hearing Loss Affect My Parent’s Well-Being?
Q: Is hearing loss just an inconvenience, or does it have real consequences?
A: Untreated hearing loss can affect more than just communication. It has been linked to:
- Social isolation
- Cognitive decline and dementia
- Depression and anxiety
- Increased risk of falls and balance issues
- Reduced quality of life
A recent Johns Hopkins study found that moderate hearing loss triples the risk of dementia in older adults. The earlier it’s identified and treated, the better the long-term outcomes.
How Should I Start the Conversation?
Q: How can I talk to my parent about their hearing without offending them?
A: Start by expressing concern, not criticism. Choose a quiet, private moment to bring it up. For example:
“I noticed you seemed to have trouble hearing the grandkids at the barbecue. I wonder if it might help to get a hearing check, just like we do with our vision.”
Be patient. It may take several conversations. You can also suggest coming to a hearing consultation together to show support and reduce stigma.
What Are Today’s Hearing Aid Options Like?
Q: Are hearing aids bulky or uncomfortable like they used to be?
A: Absolutely not. Today’s hearing aids are small, discreet, and high-tech. Many models are virtually invisible and include features like:
- Bluetooth streaming for phones and TVs
- Rechargeable batteries
- Automatic background noise reduction
- Tinnitus masking sound programs
At El Dorado Hearing, we offer personalized hearing aid fittings based on your parent’s lifestyle and preferences, whether they’re active, tech-savvy, or new to assistive devices.
What Should We Expect at a Hearing Evaluation?
Q: What happens during a hearing checkup at Eldorado Hearing?
A: A comprehensive hearing evaluation typically includes:
- A review of medical and hearing history
- Ear exam to check for wax or blockages
- Hearing tests using tones and speech in quiet and noisy settings
- Explanation of results and recommendations
We’ll answer all your family’s questions and never pressure anyone into a solution they’re not ready for.
Why Summer Is the Perfect Time for a Hearing Check
Q: Why should we act now, during summer?
A: Summer is full of opportunities for social connection, which makes it the ideal time to address hearing challenges. Whether it’s a family reunion, a wedding, or just weekly visits with grandchildren, restoring hearing can dramatically improve your parent’s enjoyment, and participation, in these events.
When hearing loss is properly managed, your loved one can feel more confident, engaged, and connected to the people and activities that matter most.
Let El Dorado Hearing Help Your Family This Season
At Eldorado Hearing, we understand that bringing a parent in for a hearing check can be emotional, but it’s also one of the most loving things you can do.
We specialize in:
- Hearing evaluations for older adults
- Discreet, comfortable hearing aid options
- Tinnitus support and earwax management
- Family consultations to address shared concerns
Don’t let another summer pass with missed moments and unheard memories. Visit eldoradohearing.com or call today to schedule a compassionate hearing consultation for your parent.
Let’s help them reconnect, with their family, their environment, and the joy of hearing.
info@ElDoradoHearing.com
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