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Introduction

• A common problem amongst senior citizens; which can reduce ability to communicate.
• Hearing impairment can result in:
• Misunderstanding
• Confusion
• This situation can cause senior citizens become recluse from society due to embarrassment
• Presbyacusis is a common problem faced by senior citizens.

Presbyacusis

• Slow hearing loss due to degeneration (degenerative process) cochlear capillary and nerve fibre cells.
• Has problem with high pitch tone, situation worsens if exposed to:
• Prolonged noisy situation
• Medicines – diuretic
• Antibiotic

Signs of Possible Prebyacusis

• Complains cannot hear especially in noisy environment
• Always suspicious that others are talking about him
• Blames family members do not talk to him
• Ask things to be repeated
• Talk loudly
• Talk / mingle less

What should you do?

• See a doctor if those signs are present
• Use hearing aid
• When conversing with one who is hard of hearing, use the following techniques:
• Face him (able to see/observe your movement, facial expression)
• Avoid covering your mouth or chewing (to enable observation of lip movement)
• Avoid shouting
• Talk to the side of ear without the problem
• Talk slowly, use short sentences and one word at a time
• Give time for reaction
• Ensure there is sufficient light