How to Talk to a Loved One about Hearing Loss

It is commonly understood that healthy channels of communication are fundamental to healthy relationships. When there is a breakdown in communication, relationships are quick to crumble. In some cases, untreated hearing loss could be at the root of communication problems.

Have you noticed that lately your jokes are missing the mark? Have you found yourself repeating the same thing over and over again before your parent responds? Have you noticed that your best friend has been avoiding social functions? Are your phone calls with a sibling short and disjointed?

While it’s difficult to not take these scenarios personally, keep in mind that your loved one may be experiencing a hearing loss. Among the many consequences of untreated hearing loss, there may be problems with communication. Here, we take a look at some basics of hearing loss and provide tips on addressing hearing loss with a loved one.

Basics of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss may occur to anyone, at any age. It may occur naturally, due to aging; in other cases, it may happen due to exposure to loud sounds. Hearing loss affects 20% of Americans, with one in three adults over the age of 65 experiencing some degree of hearing loss. Signs of hearing loss include difficulties in speech recognition and in hearing conversations in louder environments such as restaurants and bars, a tendency to turn up the volume on home entertainment systems, and a gradual withdrawal from one’s social life.

Untreated hearing loss often has far-reaching effects on a person’s well-being. Many people begin to notice changes in their hearing, but specialists estimate that people wait an average of seven years before they decide to seek treatment. Given the number of health issues – both physical and emotional – related to untreated hearing loss, it is important to address hearing loss as soon as it appears.

Tips for Talking to Your Loved One about Hearing Loss

Hearing loss is a sensitive topic. Many people unconsciously adjust to the experience of hearing loss, by turning up the volume or avoiding social situations. Additionally, as an invisible condition, it may occur gradually and people may not immediately understand that their emotional experiences (stress, anxiety, depression) or physical experiences (fatigue, imbalance) are related to hearing loss.

If you believe your loved one is experiencing a hearing loss, your goal is to encourage them to take a hearing test. This is the first step to improving hearing health. Here are a few tips for broaching this sensitive topic with your loved one.

Do your research
The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) offers resources and information on their website about hearing loss, related problems, and statistics. Perhaps there is a hesitation to discuss hearing loss due to stigma about aging and hearing aids. With more information in your toolbox, you’ll be able to have an informed and persuasive conversation with your loved one about the importance of getting a hearing test and finding solutions for their hearing loss.

Schedule a quiet time and place to talk
Speech recognition is a major challenge for people with hearing loss. It is best to find a quiet place to have a conversation about hearing loss. Moreover, because of certain cultural stigmas around hearing loss, it may be best to have a one-on-one conversation in a private place. Avoid loud, public spaces that may cause interruptions or distractions with background noise.

Discuss your experience
Consider that your loved one may be defensive about their experience with their hearing abilities. When bringing up scenarios, instead of using language like “You always ask me to repeat myself,” consider reframing it through your own experience with your loved one. In other words, make a statement like, “I find it difficult when we have conversations because I’m frustrated that I have to repeat myself all of the time.”

Listen
After you’ve expressed your concerns to your loved one, give them space to speak. Chances are they have felt the same concerns, along with fear, frustration, and shame. Allow them the opportunity to express their feelings about their experience. Ask open-ended questions that will encourage them to talk and share, rather than yes or no questions.

Offer Your Support and Set Up Next Steps
Provide your loved one with information from your research on hearing loss. Show them the manifold benefits of seeking treatment. Offer the many advanced solutions available. Remind your loved one that you are here to support them through this process, and offer to join them for their appointment with a hearing specialist. Reassure your loved one that though it may feel daunting, they are not alone on this journey and that you are available to help them along the way.

Contact Us at Worth Hearing

Our friendly team is here to support you and your loved ones on the journey to better hearing. To schedule a hearing test and consultation, contact us at Worth Hearing today.