Elderly Care in Hobe Sound FL
From developing a hearing loss to having a medical condition that affects their cognitive skills and ability to communicate, there are many reasons older adults lose their capability of communicating. Seniors with communication difficulties may require the help of an elderly care provider who will be able to help the elder with daily tasks and act as their ears at appointments. There are several health ailments to be aware of as they may affect their ability to interact and exchange ideas with others. Here are a few of those conditions you need to know.
- Hearing Loss: Hearing loss becomes increasingly popular once adults hit the age of 60. In fact, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders reported that one in three seniors in this age group have some form of hearing loss. That number increases by about 50 percent by the time they are 80 years old. Hearing loss may not be noticeable right away because it usually occurs gradually. Knowing the symptoms of this condition will help your loved one get the treatment needed before it becomes worse. These symptoms include turning the volume on the radio or television up extremely high, asking others to repeat themselves or to speak louder, and avoiding participation in social events. If your loved one is experiencing these problems, they should discuss it with an audiologist.
- Aphasia: This communication disorder is caused by those who have suffered a stroke, but it does not happen to all stroke survivors. The National Stroke Association says that about one in four people who have had a stroke will develop aphasia, which makes it difficult for them to speak and understand what is being said.
- Parkinson’s Disease: Parkinson’s disease occurs when damage is done to the basal ganglia, which is an area of the brain. As the condition progresses, more and more language disabilities will be evident. The elder may begin to slur his words, be unable to articulate them, and have a change to their voice. There are treatments available that will help the senior gain some of his vocabulary and communication skills back.
- Multiple Sclerosis: Also known as MS, multiple sclerosis makes it difficult to swallow, resulting in a speech impairment. Someone with MS may not notice a change in their speech, so a family member or elder care provider should watch for changes and alert the doctor if they notice any.
- Alzheimer’s disease: Alzheimer’s disease, along with other forms of dementia, greatly affects the parts of the brain the control speech and comprehension. Although this disease does not currently have a treatment, those with the disease may benefit from speech therapy.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elderly care in Hobe Sound, FL, contact the caring staff at BrightStar Care of Jupiter. Call today (561) 741-1200.