Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Caregiver considerations Hearing loss

Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Caring for someone with hearing loss Hearing loss can bring:  A sense of isolation  Loneliness  Frustration  Embarrassment  Sadness May 2013 Hearing loss-caregiver considerations

Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Cognitive issues An older person with hearing loss:  May be misinterpreted as having dementia  May eventually lose cognitive function due to lack of interpersonal communication May 2013 Hearing loss-caregiver considerations

Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Types of hearing loss  Conductive –examples: ear wax buildup, narrowed ear canal from many infections  Sensorineural –examples: presbycusis (hearing loss due to aging), exposure to loud noises, stroke  Mixed –A combination of the above types May 2013 Hearing loss-caregiver considerations

Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. The CNA’s role  Know which residents have hearing loss –Assist with hearing aids –Be aware of their needs for communication –Follow communication tips (see later slide)  Report signs of hearing loss –Frequently asking that you repeat –Failing to respond to questions –Becoming socially isolated May 2013 Hearing loss-caregiver considerations

Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Communication tips  Always face the person –So they can see your lips and facial expression  Position yourself at their level –If the resident is in a wheelchair, try to squat down or sit in a nearby chair –If in bed, sit in a bedside chair  Reduce noise in the environment –Close window to reduce traffic noise –Turn down TV/radio (with resident’s permission) May 2013 Hearing loss-caregiver considerations

Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Hearing devices  Hearing aids –In the outer ear –Behind the ear (a molded portion fits in the ear) –Inside the ear canal  “Pocket Talker” ® –External device with amplifier and microphone –May be wired or wireless –Can be kept on hand for use by residents as needed May 2013 Hearing loss-caregiver considerations

Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Issues with hearing aids  Can be difficult for an older person to insert correctly  Batteries –must be fresh –are small and easily lost  Can cause ringing sound if not correctly placed  Tend to amplify background noise  Some people are embarrassed to wear them May 2013 Hearing loss-caregiver considerations

Copyright © 2013 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Quality of life Help residents with hearing loss maintain good quality of life  Make an effort to communicate  Try to engage the resident when in group settings  Use communication tips to assist their understanding  Make use of a Pocket Talker type device if your facility has one  Remember how isolating deafness can be “Blindness cuts us off from things, but deafness cuts us off from people.” --Helen Keller May 2013 Hearing loss-caregiver considerations