When you’re a kid, your parents pick you up after you fall off your bike, grab you soup from the Missoula Fresh Market when you’re sick and lend an ear when you’re sad. As you age, those roles start to reverse. One area you may notice this first is their hearing.
Hearing loss is a common byproduct of aging. Approximately one in three people in the U.S. aged 65 to 74 has hearing loss. That number increases to half for those 75 and older. Despite its prevalence, many struggle to accept the fact that their hearing is fading. Let’s take a look at a few tips to help you start a conversation with your aging parents about hearing loss treatment.
1. Speak Compassionately
It’s hard to grapple with the idea that you’re struggling to do something that used to come easily. Begin the conversation compassionately, always making it clear that you genuinely care about their well-being. You can say something like “Hey, Mom, I noticed that you’ve been having trouble hearing me lately. Have you thought about getting a hearing test?”
2. Avoid Elderspeak
Elderspeak, the practice of simplifying speech when interacting with older adults, is a common phenomenon, particularly in healthcare settings. This type of speech pattern is similar to how adults talk to children. It may involve over-explaining things or slowing speech unnecessarily.
It’s essential to remember that hearing loss isn’t a marker of intelligence. Speak to your parent at a natural pace, using the same language you always have. Let them ask you to speak up or repeat yourself. It all boils down to ensuring that you aren’t taking away your parents’ independence or agency.
3. List Examples
If your parent denies having hearing loss, list a few examples of times you’ve noticed them struggling. Common signs include:
- Feeling that others are mumbling
- Turning the TV or radio volume up
- Trouble hearing children
- Pulling away socially
If they refuse to accept these signs, try again another day or gently point them out in the moment.
4. Encourage Them To Make an Appointment
Encourage your parent to schedule a hearing test with their audiologist. If they ask, accompany them to their appointment or schedule it for them. Remember to wait for them to ask for help before assuming they need it. It’s true that some people may never ask for help, even when they need it, so take initiative if you think it’s necessary.
You know your parents best. Consider who they are and tailor your conversation to their specific needs. For more information on hearing loss or to schedule an appointment, contact Western Montana Hearing and Speech today.