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Contents
  • Auditory Rehabilitation
  • Assistive Listening Devices
  • Communication Strategies
  • Addressing Related Issues

Beyond Devices: Other Therapies for Age-Related Hearing Loss

Beyond Devices: Other Therapies for Age-Related Hearing Loss

Holistic Hearing Help

While hearing aids and cochlear implants are crucial tools for managing age-related hearing loss, they're not the only options. A range of therapies and strategies can help people cope with hearing loss and improve their quality of life.
Contents
  • Auditory Rehabilitation
  • Assistive Listening Devices
  • Communication Strategies
  • Addressing Related Issues

Auditory Rehabilitation

Auditory rehabilitation is a key component of hearing loss treatment. This therapy helps people make the most of their remaining hearing and any hearing devices they use. It can include exercises to improve speech recognition, strategies for better communication, and counseling to address the emotional aspects of hearing loss. Many people find that auditory rehabilitation helps them adjust to hearing aids more quickly and effectively.

Assistive Listening Devices

In addition to hearing aids, there are many other devices that can help people with hearing loss. These include amplified telephones, doorbell signalers that use lights or vibrations, and personal sound amplification products (PSAPs) for specific situations. FM systems, which transmit sound directly to hearing aids or other receivers, can be particularly helpful in noisy environments or for watching TV. Closed captioning on TVs and video content is another valuable tool.
Auditory rehabilitation is a therapy designed to improve speech recognition and communication strategies for those with hearing loss, helping them make the most of their remaining hearing and hearing devices.

Communication Strategies

Learning and using effective communication strategies can significantly improve daily life for people with hearing loss. These might include positioning yourself to see the speaker's face, reducing background noise when possible, and asking for clarification when needed. For friends and family of those with hearing loss, strategies like speaking clearly (but not shouting), facing the person when speaking, and ensuring good lighting can all help.

Addressing Related Issues

Age-related hearing loss can sometimes be accompanied by other issues like tinnitus (ringing in the ears) or balance problems. Therapies like tinnitus retraining therapy or vestibular rehabilitation can help manage these associated conditions. It's also important to address any emotional or psychological impacts of hearing loss, which might involve counseling or support groups.

FAQs

Can vitamins or supplements help with hearing loss?

Some may help, but more research is needed.

Is sign language useful for age-related hearing loss?

It can be, especially if hearing loss is severe.

Can cognitive training help with hearing?

It may improve your ability to process what you hear.

Are there apps to help with hearing loss?

Yes, many apps offer amplification or captioning features.

Can acupuncture treat hearing loss?

There's limited evidence for its effectiveness in hearing loss.

A Multi-Faceted Approach

Managing age-related hearing loss often requires a combination of strategies and therapies tailored to each individual's needs.
Want to explore all your options for managing hearing loss? Chat with Doctronic to learn about therapies that might work for you.
Additional References
  1. Boothroyd A. Adult aural rehabilitation: what is it and does it work? Trends Amplif 2007; 11:63.
  2. Kricos PB. Hearing assistive technology considerations for older individuals with dual sensory loss. Trends Amplif 2007; 11:273.
  3. Sweetow R, Palmer CV. Efficacy of individual auditory training in adults: a systematic review of the evidence. J Am Acad Audiol 2005; 16:494.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.