Hearing loss can be a frustrating and isolating experience. The impact of hearing loss extends beyond the person experiencing it and it can be difficult to watch a loved one navigate hearing loss. Sometimes, even with hearing loss symptoms, your loved one may not feel ready to approach the subject of treatment. Navigating these conversations doesn’t have to be difficult. With time and patience, your loved one will understand the benefits of treating their hearing loss.
Approach the subject gently
You may begin the conversation gently and encourage them to talk about problems they notice. It’s important to have this conversation in a quiet and comfortable environment where you both can talk without distractions. You may say to them, “I’ve noticed that sometimes you need things repeated more than once. I’m wondering if you’ve noticed that too.” This creates a safe place to talk and allows them to express their thoughts.
Learn about their barriers
Sometimes, the concerns people have around hearing aids impact their desire for treatment. Two common concerns surrounding hearing aids include stigma and cost. Many individuals fear that a hearing aid will be large and noticeable which makes them look older and show signs of aging. However, hearing aids have changed over the last few decades. Hearing aids are now discrete and can be matched to hair or skin color. They can also vary in price depending on the type of technology that you pursue.
Recently, over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids have become available. OTC hearing aids are intended for individuals with perceived mild-to-moderate hearing loss. OTC hearing aids are designed to be more accessible and affordable than prescription hearing aids. Read more here to see if you or your loved one are a candidate for OTC hearing aids. Are You a Candidate for an Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid?
Talk through the benefits
Discussing the benefits of using hearing aids can motivate someone to consider treatment. Using hearing aids can help someone become more socially involved. This can increase social participation and reduce the risk of isolation. They can hear their children and grandchildren talking, join the conversation, and feel more included.
Address safety concerns
Hearing aids can also help with safety by allowing people to hear alarms, footsteps, and other environmental sounds. This can be especially important for individuals with hearing loss who live alone. Literature also suggests that the use of hearing aids also slows down cognitive decline for high-risk individuals.1 Treating hearing loss can positively impact multiple areas of life.
Be patient
Finally, be patient with them. Approaching your loved one about their hearing loss requires compassion and empathy. Navigating their hearing loss is a personal journey. It may take a few conversations before they are open to the idea of pursuing hearing aids. Your support and encouragement can make a significant difference in their life.
- Lin, F. R., Pike, J. R., Albert, M. S., Arnold, M., Burgard, S., Chisolm, T., Couper, D., Deal, J. A., Goman, A. M., Glynn, N. W., Gmelin, T., Gravens-Mueller, L., Hayden, K. M., Huang, A. R., Knopman, D., Mitchell, C. M., Mosley, T., Pankow, J. S., Reed, N. S., Sanchez, V., … ACHIEVE Collaborative Research Group (2023). Hearing intervention versus health education control to reduce cognitive decline in older adults with hearing loss in the USA (ACHIEVE): a multicentre, randomised controlled trial. Lancet (London, England), 402(10404), 786–797. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)01406-X