You care deeply about your loved ones and want to do something to show them? Listen to your loved ones, really listen. But you need to be able to hear in order to really listen.
Research demonstrates one in three adults between the ages of 65 and 74 is suffering from hearing loss and millions would benefit from using a hearing aid. But only 30% of those people actually wear hearing aids, regrettably.
Diminishing hearing, depression, higher instances of dementia, and strained relationships are some consequences of this inaction. Many individuals coping with hearing loss just suffer in silence.
But spring is almost here. Spring should be a time when we enjoy blossoming flowers, emerging leaves, beginning new things, and growing closer to loved ones. Talking candidly about hearing loss can be a superb way to renew relationships.
It’s Necessary to Have “The Talk”
Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is 2.4 times more likely in individuals who have untreated hearing loss according to several studies. A cascade effect that ultimately impacts the overall brain can be initiated when there’s decreased activity in the part of your brain responsible for hearing. This is called “brain atrophy” by doctors. It’s the “use it or lose it” principle in action.
People with hearing loss have nearly two times as many instances of depression than individuals who have healthy hearing. Research reveals that as a person’s hearing loss gets worse, they often become anxious and agitated. The person may start to seclude themselves from family and friends. They’re likely to fall deeper into melancholy as they stop participating in activities once loved.
Strained relationships between friends and family members is frequently the result of this separation.
Solving The Puzzle
Your loved one may not feel that they can talk to you about their hearing issues. Fear or embarrassment could be a problem for them. They might be in denial. In order to decide when will be the best time to have this discussion, some detective work might be necessary.
Since you are unable to hear what your loved one hears, you’ll have to rely on outward cues, including:
- Misunderstanding situations more frequently
- Avoiding busy places
- Sudden trouble with work, hobbies, or school
- Not hearing imperative sounds, like the doorbell, washer buzzer, or somebody calling their name
- Avoiding conversations
- Turning the volume way up on the TV
- New levels of anxiousness in social settings
- Experiencing a ringing, humming, static, or other sounds that you don’t hear
Look for these common symptoms and plan on having a heart-to-heart conversation with your loved one.
The Hearing Loss Talk – Here’s How
Having this conversation might not be easy. A partner in denial may brush it off or become defensive. That’s why approaching hearing loss in an appropriate manner is so important. You may need to modify your language based on your distinct relationship, but the steps will be the same for the most part.
Step 1: Make them aware that you value your relationship and have unconditional love for them.
Step 2: You are worried about their health. You’ve gone over the studies. You know that untreated hearing loss can lead to a higher chance of depression and dementia. You don’t want that for your loved one.
Step 3: You’re also concerned about your own health and safety. Your hearing can be harmed by overly loud volumes on the TV and other devices. Relationships can also be effected by the anxiety loud noises can cause, according to some studies. Your loved one may not hear you yelling for help if you’ve fallen down or someone’s broken into the house.
Emotion is a key part of strong communication. Simply listing facts won’t be as effective as painting an emotional picture of the possible consequences.
Step 4: Come to an agreement that it’s time for a hearing assessment. After making the decision, make the appointment right away. Don’t procrastinate.
Step 5: Be ready for your loved ones to have some objections. These could occur anytime during the process. This is somebody you know well. What will they object to? Money? Time? Are they convinced it’s not a big deal? Do they think they can use homemade remedies? You know “natural hearing loss cures” don’t actually work and could cause more harm than good.
Prepare your counter replies. You might even rehearse them in the mirror. They don’t have to match those listed above word-for-word, but they should answer your loved one’s concerns.
Grow Your Relationship
If your significant other is unwilling to talk, it can be a tough situation. But by having this conversation, you’ll grow closer and get your loved one the help they need to live a longer, healthier, more fulfilling life. Isn’t love all about growing together?
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References
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hearing-loss-common-problem-older-adults
https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/statistics/quick-statistics-hearing#:~:text=About%2028.8%20million%20U.S.%20adults%20could%20benefit%20from%20using%20hearing%20aids.
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/the-hidden-risks-of-hearing-loss
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5403920/
https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/news/2014/nidcd-researchers-find-strong-link-between-hearing-loss-and-depression-adults