Most people that gradually lose their hearing don’t realize they are losing their hearing. Unfortunately, not only do studies reveal that hearing loss denial is a significant problem, particularly among seniors, but many patients also reject hearing loss treatment.
While talking with family members who stubbornly refuse to accept that they have lost their hearing may be difficult, it’s important to continue to offer support. If you respond to them with aggression or indifference, their resentment will continue to grow, and they likely won’t seek help.
Instead, here are some ways you can support a loved one with hearing loss and improve their quality of life.
One of the easiest ways to support a family member with hearing loss is to attend all of their hearing appointments. By attending the appointments, you can take notes of what the doctor says to ensure that your loved one clearly understands instructions involving medication and treatment options. You can also use mobile phones for seniors so they can understand instructions easily.
Additionally, you’ll be able to discuss with the doctor how you can better support your loved one. They may have additional instructions on how you can communicate more effectively with your loved one.
By attending the hearing appointments and taking it seriously, you can show your loved one that their hearing health is important to you and that you are committed to helping them through these difficult times.
Adjust Your Speech Patterns
As we speak at home among family and friends, we often shout from other rooms or speak facing a different direction. These common behavior patterns can be frustrating for a family member with hearing loss.
Instead, only speak to your loved one if you’re in the same room and speak facing them as hearing loss patients often rely on lip reading for comprehension.
To get their attention, you can wave or gently tap them or say their name at the beginning of the conversation. Use simple sentences and pause as you speak to ensure that what you are saying is being understood.
During meal times, be sure to pull your hands away from your face as you speak to the hard of hearing relative and avoid chewing as you speak.
Create a Friendlier Environment
Another way you can support your loved one through hearing loss is by creating a friendlier home environment. For example, create rules such as turning off background noises like the television or radio to make it easier to hear.
Additionally, consider improving the lighting in your home as well lit spaces make it easier for hearing loss patients to lip read.
Understand The Emotional Struggle
The physical loss of hearing is frustrating, though the mental and emotional impact it can have on a family member can be devastating. They too can be frustrated asking you to repeat yourself, and they want you to understand conversations around them.
If they ask you to repeat what you said, be patient and kind with them. Instead of saying, “it’s nothing important,” or “nevermind,” rephrase what you said in a simpler sentence.
Try to be understanding during the process and learn as much as you can about the condition. However, it’s also important to realize that you can’t force a loved one to seek treatment. It is ultimately a personal decision and it’s not your responsibility to make it happen.
About the Author:
Pauline Dinnauer is the VP of Audiological Care at Connect Hearing, which provides industry-leading hearing loss, hearing testing, and hearing aid consultation across the US.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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