More than two-thirds of older people have hearing loss. As a care professional, there are proactive steps you can take and information you can share to improve the quality of care for older people who are deaf or have hearing loss.
Be alert to the early signs of hearing loss
Unaddressed hearing loss can lead to social isolation and an increased risk of other health problems. Evidence shows that hearing aids can reduce these risks.
When new residents arrive, be aware of the signs of hearing loss, such as:
- asking others to repeat things
- failing to follow conversation in noisy places
- behavioural changes, such as withdrawal from social activities
You can use our quick online hearing check to help identify hearing loss.
Encourage residents with hearing loss to seek help from their GP.
Find out more about getting hearing aids.
Support residents to use their hearing aids
If someone has a hearing aid, record this in their care plan and make a note of other accessories that may be needed, such as replacement batteries or tubing.
When someone is fitted with hearing aids by an audiologist, they should be provided with written instructions on how to operate and maintain their hearing aids.
Carry out regular checks to make sure their hearing aids are working and fitted correctly.
Find out more about:
- cleaning and maintaining hearing aids
- solving common hearing aid problems
- getting used to hearing aids
Ask residents about their communication needs
People who are deaf or have hearing loss may need staff to follow simple communication tips, or need more communication time when receiving care. Make sure this is recorded in their care plan.
Recording and meeting communication needs is a legal requirement in England under the Accessible Communication Standard (AIS).
Create an inclusive care home environment
A high level of background noise can make it difficult for people with hearing loss to understand what’s being said and participate fully in conversations and social activities.
Carpeted floors, padded tablecloths and soft furnishings should be used wherever possible to help absorb background noise.
Older people with hearing loss may also benefit from assistive technology, such as hearing loops, personal listeners and flashing smoke alarms. Find out more about assistive technologies.
Be aware of the needs of Deaf residents
People who are culturally Deaf are less likely to benefit from hearing aids, and they may need specialist care and support that recognises the unique language and culture of the Deaf community.
They may also need support from a qualified British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter, as well as help to contact family and friends and local Deaf clubs or other community groups.