77: Hearing Loss: Signs & Solutions with Dr. Debbie Abel, AuD

Dr. Lakelyn welcomes audiologist Dr. Debbie Abel for an important conversation about hearing loss and why recognizing it early can make a tremendous difference in health, relationships, and quality of life.Hearing loss is often dismissed as a normal part of aging, but untreated hearing loss can affect communication, increase social isolation, contribute to fall risk, and is associated with cognitive decline. Dr. Abel shares practical advice for family caregivers on recognizing the signs, starting compassionate conversations, understanding today's hearing technology, and helping loved ones successfully adjust to hearing aids.Episode highlights include:- Signs a loved one may be experiencing hearing loss- Why hearing loss should never be ignored- How to start the conversation with compassion- What happens during an audiology evaluation- Practical communication tips for families- How hearing aids have changed over the years- Why adjustment takes time—and why follow-up appointments matter- The connection between hearing loss, dementia, and fall riskHelpful links from the episode:- HearingLoss.com- American Academy of Audiology: audiology.org- Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA): hearingloss.org- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA): asha.org- Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on hearing loss: cdc.gov/hearing-loss/about/- Cliff Olson, AuD - YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@DrCliffAuDTo learn more about this podcast and to subscribe to our caregiving newsletters, visit www.homeinstead.com/caregiverchats. Share your thoughts, experiences and ideas by emailing Dr. Lakelyn at caregiverchats@homeinsteadinc.com.Like, subscribe, rate and review this podcast on your favorite podcast platform.Follow us on social media:Instagram: @caregiverchatspodcast @homeinsteadincFacebook: @homeinsteadincYouTube: @homeinsteadincTikTok: @homeinstead.inc