Loss of hearing is relatively common among the elderly but there are ways to help them communicate and to prevent them feeling isolated.

Firstly, a check-up with the GP will help establish whether the deafness is a short-term problem, such as ears blocked up with wax, or whether it is long term problem in need of help such as a hearing aid and/or other equipment.

While there is no way of restoring hearing loss,  hearing aids work by making sounds louder and clearer as well as distinguishing between foreground and background noise. These days, technology is making such aids smaller with some containing digital technology that can clear unwanted background noise.

Using a hearing aid for the first time can make everyday sounds seem quite loud so a new user will need a couple of months to get used to them and to learn how to adjust the controls.

There is also more special equipment available for use around the home such as a loop system connected to your TV or radio to make sound louder, a telephone amplifier and adjustments to alarms or doorbells to make them louder, flash or vibrate.

Learning to lip read can also be helpful and there are local lip reading classes to help.

Communication is essential for good mental health as being deaf can make the person feel very isolated. Other people can help with communication by making sure they have face to face contact with the deaf person, gently tapping their arm to get their attention and ensuring conversations are held in good light away from distractions. Speak clearly and using gestures where appropriate and keep what you are saying simple helps too. Use normal lip movements, facial expressions and gestures.