Breaking the Ice: How To Discuss Hearing Loss

Family members of patients at McGuire's Hearing Aids and Audiological Services tell us one of the most difficult discussions they have with a loved one is advising him or her about a hearing loss.

Often, family attempts are rebuffed, resisted, or met with a sense of resignation that starts with, "Hearing loss is an inevitable part of aging."

What the patient may not realize is that his or her hearing loss makes family communication challenging and frustrating for others; that hearing loss can lead to isolation, poor social skills, depression, and a physical loss in the ability to interpret speech, if left untended.

We counsel family members to practice patience, empathy, and gentle encouragement when dealing with someone who has hearing loss. Here are a few additional suggestions to "break the ice" when confronting this issue:

• Remember to maintain your cool in the face of frustration. Repeating information and being misunderstood is frustrating, but recognize the challenges of change for your loved one.
• If your loved one balks at receiving a hearing screening to determine hearing loss, offer to accompany him or her. Reluctance often stems from fear or ignorance about what to expect or concern about high-pressure sales tactics.
• Perhaps the idea of owning a hearing device seems overwhelming. Offer to help with inserting batteries or to accompany them on future visits for wax removal, hearing checks and so on.
• Explain the challenges of hearing loss to others and ask them to offer empathy, not criticism. This will ensure that your loved one receives unilateral support from family and friends.
• Counsel your loved one about the challenges faced by those who love him or her. Acknowledge that it's difficult to communicate and that you recognize it's not easy for either of you. Stay positive and suggest that you tackle the problem together.
• If possible, help with costs. Even if you can't afford to pay for a portion of the device, ask if you can purchase batteries to help. Or offer to speak with the selected hearing provider about finance options so that your loved one has affordable options for better hearing.

It's never easy to tackle a sensitive subject, especially when the topic can cause hurt feelings or seem critical. When discussing this topic, remember to be considerate of feelings and approach things slowly so that your loved one has time to process change. Be a partner and an advocate for better hearing, and you'll have a better chance of being heard!