Ignoring Hearing Loss Can Dramatically Increase Likelihood of Dementia

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Q. I am convinced that my mom is experiencing hearing loss. I find myself repeating things I say and shouting just so she'll hear me. She also turns the TV up so loud that I can hear it on the other side of the house! I think she could be in denial about her hearing loss because when I broach the topic, she quickly changes the subject. It’s causing frustration and a strain on our relationship.

I know she is very sensitive to the stigma of a hearing aid and thinks that hearing loss only occurs in older people. However, I want to persuade her to get help, because I read that ignoring hearing loss can increase the risk of dementia. Is this true, and what can I do if my efforts to persuade her to get a hearing test (pun intended) fall on deaf ears?

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Critter Corner: Driving Safely with Hearing Loss

Dear Ribbit,

My father has hearing loss and I fear that it's affecting his driving. He gave me a ride to the airport yesterday, and we almost got into two accidents. Are their things that can be done to help someone with hearing loss drive more safely?

Thanks for your help!

S. "Carrie" Driver


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