Hearing loss isn’t just a difficult experience for the person who has it. It can affect partners, children and other family members, as well. Research has shown that hearing loss can put a strain on relationships and leave everyone feeling frustrated, worried or unsure. If someone you love has hearing loss, you may be experiencing similar feelings.
Early Signs of Hearing Loss
You might not be sure if your loved one has hearing loss or just has occasional moments where they misunderstand. Early signs of the condition include:
- Difficulty following conversations. This is especially true in larger groups or in places where this is a lot of background noise.
- They frequently ask you or others to repeat what’s been said.
- They listen to music or television at a very high volume.
If someone you care about is exhibiting any of these symptoms, they may have hearing loss.
How You Can Help
- Voice your concerns. Your loved one may be unaware of the severity of your hearing loss or the ways it’s impacting your relationship. Let them know that you worry about the effects untreated hearing loss may have on their health. Or that it feels like hearing loss is hurting your ability to communicate with each other.
- Empathize with them. Hearing loss can be frustrating to experience. Your loved one may be feeling embarrassed or unsure of what to do. Listen and validate their feelings.
- Help destigmatize hearing aids. Your loved one might worry that people will think they are old or less abled if they have to wear hearing aids. Reassure them that that isn’t the case. Explain to them that treating hearing loss with hearing aids is no different than needing glasses to help them see better.
- Encourage them to schedule a hearing test and offer to take them to their appointment. Sometimes, the first step can be the most difficult. If they have someone with them, it can make taking that step less intimidating.
To learn more about hearing loss diagnosis and treatment, contact Western Montana Hearing and Speech today.