When you see a loved one experiencing something that you feel is out of your control, it can be disheartening. Hearing loss is often something that can’t be improved unless you seek guidance and advice from an audiologist. However, encouraging a loved one to take a hearing test might not be as easy as you think. If left unchecked, hearing loss can worsen, so if you notice that a loved one is experiencing any hearing loss, no matter how small it may be, it is important to encourage them to seek a hearing test to try and help the situation.

But, it is understandable that this might be easier said than done. This is because there are many assumptions when it comes to your loved ones. They may feel like the hearing loss is insignificant and not as bad as you may think. It might be an age-related concern where they may assume they are not old enough to experience hearing loss, and it is something of nothing. No matter what the concern is, it is still important to encourage your loved ones to seek advice.

What are the signs you might notice?

When it comes to hearing loss, it might be worth reminding yourself of the signs that you might start to notice in other people. Or, at the very least, ask your loved ones if they are experiencing any of these things:

  • Do they have trouble hearing on the phone?
  • If there is more than one person speaking, do they lose the concept of the conversation?
  • Do other people complain that the television is on too loud when they are watching it?
  • Do they say “what” quite often? This can make the interactions very frustrating.
  • Are they starting to withdraw from social interactions and environments?

If you have noticed any of these things, then it is worth suggesting a hearing test, even if it is to rule it out.

How to discuss this with your loved one?

When talking about hearing loss with a loved one, be mindful that this might be a sensitive issue. You may think that a good time to discuss your concerns would be when the hearing loss is more apparent, such as in a conversation where there is evidence of the hearing loss because of repetition. However, sometimes this might not be the best time to bring up the subject.

It might be a good idea to evaluate the situation, take notice a little more so that you have evidence to back up your claims on how your loved one might be experiencing hearing loss. It also might be worth ensuring that you pick a quiet time, a place where there is little to no background noise so that your concerns can be heard. After all, hearing loss doesn’t just affect the hearing it can also have an impact on speech and understanding.

Discuss the impact on you

It is important to express some of your concerns about hearing loss and how it might impact you. While you are very much aware that hearing loss has the biggest impact on the person experiencing it, you should also highlight how it can make you feel as well. This can help your concerns be received better and enable your loved one to feel confident that it is coming from a good place.

A great way to consider the words you use is to think about the use of the word “you” when discussing hearing loss. The word “you” puts the onus on your loved one, with comments such as “you are not listening to me” “you are asking me to repeat myself.” These comments can push your loved one away. Instead, try and replace you with I. You could use phrases such as “I have noticed” “I seem to repeat myself more frequently.” This places the onus on yourself and shows your concerns from a different perspective and could help them to understand a little more of what you are experiencing.

Choosing the right time and place for the hearing test

If your loved one agrees to a hearing test after conversations with you and understands the things you have noticed, then choosing the right place and a convenient time for the hearing test is important. You don’t want there to be any stumbling blocks or hesitations for something as simple as this. Finding a place you feel confident in is essential. To learn more about Clifton Springs Hearing Center you can call this phone number: 315-496-4314.