http://goo.gl/714rKu
When someone has a decline (small or large) in hearing, it creates communication barriers on both sides. The person is unable to hear adequately, so he or she may become confused about what is being said or happening around them. This confusion may result in them providing an inappropriate response or lack of response when prompted.
We often times assume a person is developing dementia, or worse, when he or she offers confusing or inappropriate responses. Before making this assumption, I would recommend reviewing their medical record to find out the following: