The importance of hearing cannot be understated. Our hearing enables us to communicate with others in social situations and enjoy the world around us. Talking with friends and family over the phone or in person can be impacted by hearing loss. It can also affect our daily activities and emotional well-being, which can in turn influence our mental, emotional, and physical health.
Loved ones can provide emotional support and help recognize the early signs of hearing loss. Those individuals with hearing loss can get the help they need through treatment and tools to remain independent and connected to the world around them.
Recognizing the Signs
In many cases, hearing loss happens slowly. Many people might fail to recognize that they are having trouble hearing. For many, their family and friends notice something is wrong well before they do.
Some of the most common signs of hearing loss are listed below:
- Frequently asking people to repeat what they just said
- Needing the volume to be turned up too high on the TV or radio
- Having difficulty hearing in noisy places like group conversations or restaurants
- Regularly talking too softly or too loudly
- Withdrawing from social events or conversations
Friends and family might voice their concerns and recommend a hearing test by a hearing health professional. This is important because early intervention allows you to get the help you need.
Offering Support and Encouragement
Conversations about hearing loss with loved ones can be difficult, but they are necessary. Some might feel embarrassed or upset when addressing their hearing loss. Others might think that needing a hearing aid will make them look old or weak. In those situations, kind support and gentle words of encouragement can make all the difference.
Here are some helpful ways to offer support:
- Be patient
- Start the conversation
- Go with them
- Help research options
Be Patient
When someone is struggling with their hearing, try to avoid getting frustrated with them. Take your time and speak clearly and calmly.
Start a Conversation
Gently bring up the subject of hearing loss. It might take several attempts to bring it up before they are willing to discuss it.
Go with Them
Offering to go with them to the appointment can show them that you are interested in their well-being and care about their needs. This can help make them comfortable discussing and addressing hearing loss.
Help with Research
Look up hearing aids, clinics, or support groups together. Understanding the options makes the process easier.
Helping with Daily Life
Being diagnosed with hearing loss can take some time to adjust to. Family and friends can help this transition by showing support in making communication easier.
Here are a few ways to make life more hearing-friendly:
- Face the person when speaking:
This helps them see your lips and facial expressions, which support understanding. - Speak clearly, not loudly:
Shouting can make it harder to understand. Use a normal tone, but speak a bit more slowly and clearly. - Reduce background noise:
Turn off the TV or move to a quieter room during conversations. - Use text or written notes:
If someone is having a hard time hearing over the phone or in person, texting or writing can be helpful.
Emotional Support Matters
Hearing loss doesn’t just have a physical impact; it also affects their emotions. It’s easy for those with hearing loss to feel frustrated, alone, and lonely.
Friends and family can help by:
- Including the person in conversations and group activities
- Being understanding when communication is difficult
- Encouraging them to stay active and connected
- Reminding them that they are not alone
Creating a Hearing-Friendly Environment
Friends and family can also make things easier by doing the following:
- Using subtitles on TV shows and movies
- Choosing quiet restaurants or places for gatherings
- Sitting in a circle or a well-lit room during group discussions
- Learning basic sign language or gestures for easier communication
Conclusion
Hearing loss doesn’t just impact one person; it affects their family and friends. For those with hearing loss, it can impact their entire life. However, with the support of family members and friends, they won’t feel like they are facing it alone. We can all help our loved ones stay healthy, confident, and connected.