Communication Devices for Older Adults

While studying the topic of dementia, your writer was surprised to learn that the single most effective preventative measure would be for more of the hard-of-hearing to wear hearing aids. Studies show that only one in six persons who needs a hearing aid actually uses one and the average person waits ten years before seeking treatment for hearing loss.

As discussed previously in this column, social engagement is the number one factor in maintaining one’s mental facilities as we age. It make sense then, that age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, would diminish social engagement leading to social isolation, cognitive decline and anxiety. Quality hearing aids today may be obtained over-the-counter without a prescription. Check your hearing online by googling “free on-line hearing screening”, downloading the app Mimi, or visiting hearingnumber.org, sponsored by Johns Hopkins. A visit to an audiologist (covered by Medicare) is recommended, however, to rule out any physical causes.

 Video calling, widely available today, gives you the benefit of seeing the speaker’s facial expressions and lip movements, helping listeners better understand what they’re hearing. On video you can watch the same show or movies together, even adding other parties. You can also virtually “attend” an event that you cannot make it to in-person.

 Social media allows for social engagement through meeting new people, participating in virtual activities and strengthening current relationships. Research finds that older adults using social media feel less lonely, less depressed and experience a boost in working memory performances. For older adults, visit stitch.net. 

For more information, and to find additional tools for the visually impaired and mobility impaired, visit the National Council on Aging website, ncoa.org.