You care deeply about your loved ones and want to do something to let them know? Listen to your loved ones, truly listen. But you need to be able to hear in order to really listen.
Studies reveal millions of people would benefit from using hearing aids because one in three adults between the ages of 65 and 74 have some amount of hearing loss. Regrettably, only around 30% of these individuals actually use their hearing aids.
Neglecting your hearing loss leads to trouble hearing, as well as increased dementia rates, depression, and stressed relationships. Suffering in silence is how many individuals endure their hearing loss.
But it’s almost springtime. Spring should be a time when we take pleasure in blossoming flowers, emerging leaves, beginning new things, and growing closer to loved ones. Talking openly about hearing loss can be a great way to renew relationships.
Having “The Talk” is Necessary
Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is 2.4 times more likely in individuals who have untreated hearing loss according to many studies. A cascade effect that ultimately affects the overall brain can be triggered when there’s diminished activity in the part of your brain used for hearing. This is referred to as “brain atrophy” by doctors. It’s the “use it or lose it” principle in action.
Depression cases amongst people with hearing loss are almost twice that of somebody with normal hearing. Individuals who have worsening hearing loss, according to research, frequently experience agitation and anxiety. The person may begin to seclude themselves from family and friends. They’re prone to stop including themselves in the activities they once enjoyed as they fall deeper into a state of depression.
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. They could be scared or embarrassed. They may be in denial. In order to decide when will be the appropriate time to have this discussion, some detective work may be needed.
Because it’s not possible for you to directly know how impaired your spouse’s hearing loss is, you may have to rely on some of the following indicators:
- Irritation or anxiety in social settings that you haven’t previously observed
- Steering clear of places with lots of activity and people
- Important sounds, like someone calling their name, a doorbell, or a warning alarm are often missed
- Ringing, buzzing, and other sounds that no one else hears
- Cranking the volume way up on the TV
- Avoiding conversations
- Sudden trouble with work, hobbies, or school
- Misunderstanding situations more often
Plan to have a heart-to-heart conversation with your loved one if you observe any of these common symptoms.
The Hearing Loss Talk – Here’s How
It may be hard to have this discussion. You may get the brush off or even a more defensive reaction from a partner in denial. That’s why it’s essential to approach hearing loss correctly. You might need to adjust your language based on your individual relationship, but the steps will be more or less the same.
Step 1: Let them know that you love them unconditionally and value your relationship.
Step 2: You are concerned about their health. You’ve done the research. You know that neglected hearing loss can result in an increased chance of depression and dementia. You don’t want your loved one to go through that.
Step 3: Your own health and safety are also a concern. Your hearing can be damaged by excessively loud volumes on the TV and other devices. Additionally, studies show that loud noise can create anxiety, which might impact your relationship. If somebody has broken into your house, or you call out for help, your loved one may not hear you.
Emotion is a key part of effective communication. Simply listing facts won’t be as impactful as painting an emotional picture of the possible repercussions.
Step 4: Agree together to schedule an appointment to get a hearing test. Do it immediately after deciding. Don’t procrastinate.
Step 5: Be prepared for objections. These might occur anywhere in the process. You know this person. What will their objections be? Money? Time? Are they convinced it’s no big deal? Are they thinking about trying home remedies? You understand “natural hearing loss cures” don’t really work and could cause more harm than good.
Prepare your counter responses. You might even practice them in the mirror. They don’t have to be those listed above word-for-word, but they should address your loved one’s doubts.
Grow Your Relationship
If your significant other is reluctant to talk, it can be a tough situation. But by having this discussion, 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 closer?
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