Physical Aspects of Aging -- Part 1 of 4

Physical Changes of Aging 

It is important to recognize that people age differently, so what is presented here may not be exactly what you or your loved one experience. Also, even though there are many challenges of aging, these can often be addressed through simple steps that improve communication and make the environment safer and easier for the older person to navigate. These steps may also help to make it easier for the older person to live independently for as long as possible.

Sensory Changes

Humans receive and process information from the environment through hearing, vision, taste, smell, and touch. With aging, these senses are often diminished and incoming information may be distorted or difficult to understand. As a result, the older person may give up some enjoyable activities or lose contact with friends and family who are important sources of support. These problems can be reduced or overcome by following the suggestions described in the sections below.

Hearing

About 30% of people over 60 have a hearing impairment, but about 33% of those 75 to 84, and about half of those over 85, have a hearing loss. Hearing loss affects the older person's ability to talk easily with others. For example, older people often have trouble hearing higher pitched tones. They also may not be able to make out sounds or words when there is background noise. Conversations may be difficult to hear, especially if the speaker has a high voice or there is background interference.

Older persons may be frustrated or embarrassed about not being able to understand what is being said. They may have to ask people to repeat themselves, or endure shouting when a speaker tries to be heard. Older persons may hold back from conversation out of a fear of making inappropriate comments. They may tire from concentrating and straining to hear. As a result, the older person may withdraw from friends and family and outside activities.

Hearing loss doesn't have to cause social isolation and emotional distress. Simple changes in behavior and the home environment can increase the elder's ability to carry on a normal conversation.

• Speak clearly and in a normal tone of voice. Don't speak too fast or too slow. Hold your head still. Do not shout.
• Get the older person's attention before speaking.
• Look directly at her or his face and at the same level.
• Stand or sit with the light above or toward you, not behind you. Keep your hands away from your mouth.
• Eliminate background noise from radio and television.
• Try using different phrases with the same meaning if you are not getting your point across.
• Build breaks into your conversation.
• Use facial expressions or gestures to give useful clues.
• Repeat yourself if necessary, using different words.
• Ask how you can help.
• Include the hearing-impaired person when talking, do not exclude them.

There are many different devices that can be used in the home to help a hearing-impaired person. Special phones work with hearing aids and ring louder than a standard phone. There are alarm clocks, smoke detectors, and doorbells that have flashing lights and vibrations to alert the hearing-impaired.
Older adults need routine hearing exams by qualified professionals. Have hearing checked by an audiologist to be sure that another problem is not causing the hearing loss. If a hearing aid is needed, work with the audiologist to find the right brand and fit. If you are a caregiver, provide plenty of support and encouragement to the person who is adjusting to the hearing aid.

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