Presbycusis and communication.

Impaired hearing, so common among older people, often has disastrous consequences. The infirmity, too frequently concealed or unknown by the patient, is invisible to others. Disability and frustration can be lessened considerably by greater awareness on the part of medical and lay people about various helpful measures, which are currently under-utilized. We offer some practical suggestions: Well-trained audiologists can help with both hearing aids and rehabilitation; groups for the hard of hearing can be supportive. The number and varieties of helpful devices increase steadily. Medical personnel, families, and the general public need to learn more about communicating with these people, who need help, often desperately.