Which characteristic might an elderly patient with a severe hearing deficit exhibit?

An elderly patient with a severe hearing deficit may exhibit a characteristic of suspicion of other people. This behavior can stem from the difficulties they face in communication, leading to feelings of frustration and isolation. When individuals struggle to hear and understand what is happening around them, they may become more cautious or distrustful of social interactions. This suspicion can arise from the fear of misunderstandings or miscommunications, which can occur frequently for someone with hearing loss.

While some elderly patients may maintain a high level of trust in caregivers or continue to engage in social activities, those with significant hearing deficits often experience the world differently, resulting in potential apprehension towards others. Hence, the suspicion of other people can be a natural response to the challenges associated with hearing impairment, significantly affecting their interactions and perceptions of social environments.