Dealing with hearing problems
In people with dementia, poor
hearing can add to feelings of confusion and isolation. If someone seems to
have a hearing problem, ask the GP for a referral for a hearing test. The test
and hearing aids, if needed, are free on the NHS.
If someone you know has hearing
problems, the following tips may help.
If the person uses a hearing aid,
make sure it's switched on and working properly. As dementia progresses,
hearing aids can become too difficult for people to manage themselves and may
simply add to the person's confusion.
If the person has hearing
difficulties that a hearing aid can't resolve, try to attract their attention
before speaking to them. Touch them on the arm to indicate where you are, make
sure you're facing them and then speak slowly and clearly.
If the person doesn't understand
you, try altering the form of words you're using rather than repeating the same
phrase more loudly. Make sure there's no distracting noise, such as television,
radio or loud voices. Remember to keep your questions simple, and never ask too
many questions at a time as this may cause further confusion and distress.
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