Denial is a common first response. Surely, my loved one’s hearing loss isn’t as bad as it seems. She’s not old enough to need a hearing aid.
Perhaps, it’s become a joke between the two of you. She is always requesting that you repeat what you said. You laugh about it like it’s simply a game. But this game is getting old fast. You question whether she’s simply ignoring you or if she might actually be having some legit hearing trouble.
You want your loved one to have a balanced, active, and happy life for many years so it’s likely time to be encouraging and help them find the appropriate help.
If someone you know needs hearing aids they will most likely be showing these 4 common symptoms.
1. She seems exhausted, particularly in public
You might think it’s simply an indication of aging. Your loved one really doesn’t have as much energy as they once did. You try to relate when she says that she’s not going out tonight.
You really start to think that something isn’t right when she starts skipping meetings with clubs, organizations, and hobby groups she’s always enjoyed. Loud noise seems to sap your loved one’s energy. This is especially true if they are in a situation where there is more than one discussion happening, or there’s lots of background noise.
People who are struggling to hear put excessive energy toward comprehending people around them. They frequently have to pull this energy from other brain functions like memory, talking, and moving.
This use of additional energy is actually fatiguing the brain not strengthening it. In social situations, fatigue will often seem to shut your loved one down.
Don’t presume you understand what she’s experiencing. Her feelings might be due to numerous factors. In order to get to the bottom of the problem, ask her questions and advocate for a hearing assessment.
2. She watches the TV LOUD
Often, you will notice this symptom first. They can’t seem to watch TV or play music at a normal volume.
Your living room sounds like a cinema. You instantly get the urge to make some popcorn, except you realize that she’s just watching a reality show or documentary at a volume that almost blows your ears out. Your neighbors are even able to hear it.
She might turn it down when you tell her it’s too loud. But actually, she turned on closed captions.
She may not want to admit that she actually can’t hear the TV. It’s likely time for you to suggest a hearing exam if this is a regular thing.
3. She says, “What?”… a lot
It may not be an issue if you are in a really loud setting or she’s really zoned in on something. If it’s occurring more often than that, pay attention.
Furthermore, if she’s struggling to hear phone calls you should pay attention.
Is she always aggravated because she thinks people are talking too low or muttering? Does she regularly need people to repeat what they said? It’s time for a compassionate talk about the benefits of hearing aids.
4. Your relationship is feeling strained
Researchers have revealed that couples, where one is dealing with hearing loss, have around 50% more quarrels. These arguments may be about TV volume, misunderstandings, or what one claims the other person may or may not have said.
In general, there’s just more stress in a household when somebody can’t hear. They get aggravated about their hearing loss. Others get upset when they won’t get help. This frequently results in people deciding to spend more time alone because of more hurt feelings.
Many couples don’t realize that hearing loss is the trigger, and this can harm their relationship irreparably. Even moderate hearing loss can strain a relationship, so it pays to get it checked out.
Simply getting a hearing exam can give you a completely new perspective on your relationship, whether you’re dealing with a spouse, sibling, or dear friend. Inspire your loved one to call for an appointment.
People who realize they need hearing aids and wear them say they’d never go back. Typically, they wish they would have done it sooner. They feel healthier, happier, and more energetic.
It can be a difficult conversation to have. But the challenge of this discussion is worth it when your loved one finally gets the assistance they need.
Call us today and let us help you with some ideas about how to address your loved one’s hearing loss!