Statistics provided by the World Health Organisation suggest that over 1.5 billion people worldwide live with hearing loss, with an anticipation that this number could rise to 2.5 billion by 2050. Knowing these figures, it’s more important than ever to understand hearing loss and how it can be a frustrating and isolating time for those who experience it.
With some patience, understanding and support, you can help your loved one navigate their hearing loss, as they learn to adapt to their new reality.
In this blog, we’ll explore strategies for delicately approaching your loved ones with hearing loss, effective communication and the importance of seeking professional help.
Help them to understand the signs of hearing loss
Those who live with hearing loss will tell you that understanding the signs of hearing loss is not as obvious as you might first think. Since the majority of hearing loss cases are a result of ageing, the signs we often associate with a decline in hearing can happen slowly over time, so much so that those suffering might not notice their hearing getting worse.
To support your loved one through this, you should begin to explain to them specific hearing loss symptoms that you have noticed. This might be that they had trouble following a conversation in a noisy environment, or that they had to ask you to repeat yourself several times so that they could understand what you were saying.
If your loved one is reluctant to visit a hearing care professional, a good start would be to encourage them to take an online hearing test. A free online hearing test lets you understand your listening abilities, gives you an insight into any hearing challenges and is the perfect way to gently encourage your loved one to seek medical advice.
Encourage them to seek professional advice
If you are aware of hearing loss symptoms in a loved one, it is time to act quickly. The longer time goes on, the more chance their hearing loss will worsen. Encouraging your loved one to book an appointment with an audiologist sooner rather than later could help them access treatment early on.
Data published by the British Academy of Audiology suggests that whilst 2 million people are currently using hearing aids, a further 6.7 million could benefit from using them. With these statistics in mind, the question remains: how do you get someone you love to go to the audiologist and get the help they need? When approaching this conversation, you need to make sure that you respect that person’s feelings. Understand that from their perspective this is a very difficult and challenging conversation to have. This conversation should be handled with care and consideration. Do not push the idea of booking an audiologist appointment on them, but rather give them the helpful information they need to help guide their own decision.
Help them to communicate effectively
Communication can be challenging for someone with hearing loss. However, there are always ways to make this easier.
When speaking to your loved one, you should always face your loved one directly and speak clearly, but avoid shouting or speaking unnecessarily slowly. You can also try to say things differently. If you are asked to repeat yourself, try using alternative words or phrasing to avoid particularly tricky words that they might be stuck on.
Another way to communicate more effectively is to use plain language. When interacting with a loved one struggling with hearing loss, try being clear and straight to the point. Using simple words and sentences can ensure clarity and avoid highly stressful conversations.
Whilst it seems obvious, you should always keep background noise to a minimum. Sometimes it can be easy for people with good hearing to turn down background noise as we often tend to blank this out, yet for those suffering from hearing loss, background noise can get in the way of being able to follow along with the conversation.
Be patient and empathetic
Hearing loss can be frustrating for everybody involved, and it might take your loved one time to adjust to their new reality. Be patient and avoid getting angry or disheartened if they are having trouble hearing you or need you to repeat things.
In a relaxed environment, your loved one has a better chance of understanding more of the conversation. When emotions pile up, voices are raised, and speech becomes fast, they might find it harder, if not impossible, to understand you. Instead, it is always best during this time to offer your support and encouragement to help your loved ones develop the coping mechanisms that work best for them.
Educate yourself
The more you know about hearing loss, the better equipped you will be to help your loved ones. Learn how hearing loss typically progresses, especially when it comes to the loss of higher frequencies.
Reliable websites like those from audiology associations, hospitals, or government health departments often provide clear, research-backed information on hearing loss and its management.
Joining online support groups can be enlightening, as you’ll hear first-hand stories and coping strategies from others living with or caring for someone with hearing loss. However, it’s essential to approach peer-shared advice critically and make sure to double-check suggestions with expert recommendations to avoid misinformation.
Read up on the latest research to understand not just the mechanics of hearing loss but also the emotional and social impact it can have. Journals, audiology blogs, and accessible write-ups in health publications are brilliant starting points.
If you suspect your or a loved one’s hearing is in decline, visit our website, Sutton Hearing Centre, to find out more. If your loved one is ready to take the next step in seeking out help, book an appointment with us, where we can guide you through hearing loss with care and support.