The time-worn caricature of an elderly person, hand cupped at their ear, shrieking ‘what did you say?’ is one of our cultural markers of aging and meant to be amusing. The reality is that hearing loss isn’t funny and, just as important, it’s not just an age-related condition.
Noise-induced hearing loss greatly affects military veterans, people working in industries like construction, agriculture, entertainment and manufacturing. Moreover, theWorld Health Organization reports that an estimated 1.1 billion of young people are at risk for hearing loss because they are listening to music at high volumes, especially using  headphones.
Yet the stigma associated with failing hearing prevents many people from acknowledging their problem and seeking treatment. But avoiding assessment can lead to serious health consequences—possible heart disease and depression—and a diminishing quality of life.
Yet sometimes, a gentle reminder of what can be gained from treating hearing loss, rather than what has been lost can help a loved one overcome their resistance. Remind them of the concerts they used to enjoy, the long chats with friends on the phone, rousing group discussions at book club or the soothing sounds of nature when out hiking.
The denial of one’s condition often means it falls to a close family member or friend to shepherd that person through a hearing test and subsequent treatment. Know that, at first, it’s natural to be met with resistance as the loved one goes through a form of the five stages of grief — denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.It may take a considerable amount of time before your loved one is willing to consider an assessment, and/or wear a hearing aid.
The best way to broach the matter is gently, and empathetically. Point out that improved volume and clarity will make conversations and overall communication with friends and family effortless again.
It can be advantageous to include other family members for support, but don’t treat the discussion as an intervention as it could discourage the person from seeking assessment. It can also be beneficial for you or other family members to volunteer to be tested at the same time. Annual hearing tests are recommended for everyone, no matter the age, as hearing loss can be subtle and gradual.
Educating your loved one about the advancements of hearing aids can help them overcome any reluctance or embarrassment. Wearing a hearing aid is not cumbersome and many are so discreet they’re barely noticeable. Hearing aids come in a range of styles and levels of technology that can suit any lifestyle. There are even water-resistant hearing aids. Batteries—depending on the technology and the size of the device—can last up to two weeks, and manufacturers are now introducing rechargeable options.
Technological advances allow the devices to automatically adjust the settings depending on the person’s environment. The right device fitted by a hearing healthcare professional can facilitate integrating it seamlessly into a person’s life to the extent that many people forget they’re even wearing one.
By seeking out a hearing professional—like the many at NexGen Hearing which has helped numerous patients through the testing and fitting process—it can be easier to assist your loved one. NexGen Hearing can help your family member discover that, rather than it being something negative to endure, a hearing aid can dramatically open up their world.
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