Has a family member or loved one recently been diagnosed with a hearing loss? Or maybe you’re worried that your loved one is struggling to hear, but unsure how to approach the topic. Hearing loss can be a stressful situation for everyone involved, and discussing it can be difficult. We’ve put together five tips to help make talking to your loved ones about hearing loss easier.
Find The Right Time & Place
This is not a conversation you want to have on the spur of the moment. Plan ahead of time, and look for a setting that is quiet, relaxing and private. Find somewhere that is well lit to make lip reading easier.
Put yourself into an understanding frame of mind. Consider how you may feel if the tables were turned. By approaching the topic from a place of love and caring, you can avoid your loved one responding defensively.
Be Supportive & Positive
Rather than saying, “I think you need your hearing checked”, why not try “I noticed recently your TV was on very loud, I was wondering if you might be having trouble hearing?” Ask if they have noticed any difficulties with their hearing; is listening in loud environments becoming increasingly hard? Ensure you are actively listening. You can provide further support by offering to attend any appointments with your loved one.
Consider How You’re Talking
To make the conversation easier, speak clearly in a normal voice. Face your loved one directly, and make plenty of eye contact. Avoid shouting or speaking directly into their ear. If your loved one has misunderstood something you’ve said, rather than repeating it try rephrasing it.
Highlight The Benefits Of Treatment
Hearing loss doesn’t just affect the individual, it can also affect the wider family. Remind your loved one that their inclusion in the group is important to the overall group dynamic. By treating hearing loss, they will be able to participate in social activities without worrying about missing out. Treating hearing loss has also shown to have wider benefits, ranging from decreased feelings of social isolation to reducing the risks of dementia or alzheimer’s. Hearing loss can also make someone more accident prone, so there are a number of benefits to treatment!
Be Patient
Above all, be patient. Your loved one may not immediately be ready to accept their hearing loss. Don’t push the conversation too far at any one time, make sure that they are comfortable continuing the discussion.
Consult with the Hearing Experts at Kenwood Hearing Center
If you believe that your loved one can benefit from a hearing assessment, the team at Kenwood Hearing are always available for consultation. Please contact us today and schedule an appointment. The experts at Kenwood Hearing Center are trained to help you and your family with all your hearing healthcare needs.