Ask your audiologist...

About age-related hearing loss

Presbycusis is the fancy word for age-related hearing loss. Causes of presbycusis include changes within the inner ear (damage to the tiny hair cells that pick up sound), changes in the middle ear (stiffening of the tympanic membrane and ossicles), complex changes along the nerve pathway leading to the brain, and cognitive changes in the brain.

As we get older, it gets harder to pay attention for long periods of time as we used to. Some elderly people experience cognitive slowing, memory problems, or just becoming frail and physically tired.

Younger people move and talk at a faster pace than most elderly people. Some elderly people need you to slow down your speech when talking to them, so they have time to comprehend (process) what you are saying.

Remember to speak and communicate with dignity to the elderly. Try not to use "baby talk" to communicate with them. Just speak a little bit louder (do not shout), slower, and clearer. Look at them face-to-face when you are talking.

It is very important that the elderly hearing impaired person has help with his or her hearing aids. Take the time to make sure that their aid(s) are cleaned, working properly, and have a good battery. By doing this, you will give them the best chance to understand what you are saying.

Dr. Tia Flynn is a certified audiologist and has been in business for more than 14 years. Every Tuesday morning from 9 a.m. to noon, Dr. Flynn provides free hearing screenings at 1601 Third St. in Coeur d'Alene. (208) 664-2767. Visit www.affordablehearinginc.com for a free copy of the consumers guide to hearing aids and watch helpful videos.