To help your loved ones with hearing loss, it’s vital to offer support and compassion, and provide them with the resources they need to get help.
Overcoming Barriers
Many people are resistant to the idea of getting a hearing aid, often out of misplaced pride, unwillingness to face up the the process of aging or an unwillingness to deal with the perceived inconvenience.
Thankfully, these ways of thinking are becoming less of an obstacle in recent years, with the advent of more advanced hearing aid technology, and a better informed, aging population. There’s an increasing number of people who are ready to improve their quality of life with these brilliant pieces of technology.
Talking To Your Loved One About Hearing Loss
1. Choose the right location
Choose a private, comfortable and quiet location, and one that is ideally free of background noise. This will make it easier for you and your family member to engage in a meaningful conversation, as it reduces distractions and the possibility that they will not be able to hear you well.
2. Speak clearly
As you talk, make sure that your loved one can see your face, and speak clearly, using straightforward language.
3. Show compassion
As mentioned above, many people are resistant to the idea that they may have hearing loss. Remember to be respectful of your loved one's agency over their own life choices. Remain calm and encouraging, and suggest that at the very least, it can't hurt to get their hearing tested.
4. Share how their hearing loss impacts you
Tell your loved one how their hearing loss has an impact on your relationship with them. Another factor is the element of danger; explain that you are concerned for their safety when they're out and about. Discussing these issues can help encourage your loved one to take the steps to better hearing.
5. Discuss positive steps to better hearing
Talk about the details and next steps for addressing your loved one's hearing loss. Book an appointment with EarSense Audiology to get your loved one started down the path to improved hearing, and a better quality of life.