Coping With Hearing Loss

By Kathy Mellott, AuD

It can be hard on a family when a loved one begins to suffer from hearing loss. The family dynamic might change and stress levels could rise to a new high. It's important to understand what someone is going through, and how you can be a part of easing them through coping with hearing loss.

The following are tips for maintaining healthy interactions and keeping things calm at home.

Acknowledge It If you or your family member deny the problem of hearing loss, it will only make things more difficult. Resistance will undoubtedly feel natural, but you cannot move on until you have honestly acknowledged the issue. You don't have to like the situation, but you should accept it for what it is.

Hearing Aids Go to an audiologist to determine the best course of action. Often, hearing aids may be an effective way of combatting hearing loss. Your audiologist may suggest other measures to tackle the issue.

There is a lot to know about technological advancements so make sure to contact a hearing healthcare professional before making a decision.

Basic Communication Tips There are small things you can do to give your loved one the best chance of hearing you. If you are chewing or concealing your mouth in some way, wait until you're done before talking. Speak clearly and moderately but don't overdo your enunciation.

Start to recognize when environments might be too noisy for your loved one to accurately pick out voices. And, get their attention before speaking.

Stay Positive The best thing you can do is maintain a sense of humor about the situation. Losing one's hearing is likely going to be a vulnerable and an initially uncomfortable situation. If you show respect, you will help your loved one rebuild his or her confidence despite the new disability.

If you have any more questions about living with hearing loss, contact an audiologist. They provide quality hearing aid services.