Talking to A loved one about hearing loss.
Anxiety and fear can do that.
But it’s a subject that has to be addressed.
The key is compassion.
Put yourself in their place.
But no matter how diplomatic you are, it’s quite natural for them to be defensive.
Here are a few tips to make it easier for both of you:
- Chose the right time and place. Don’t let your good intentions go to waste trying to talk to them when they’re distracted, busy or stressed.
- Plan to approach the conversation in a way that best fits your situation and is most natural to you.
Consider some of these conversation starters:
- “You know I love you and want you to be happy and enjoy life to the fullest.”
- “I’m concerned about how often you ask to have things repeated.”
- “I’ve noticed how loud the TV is whenever I visit. The high volume makes me wonder if you have hearing loss.”
- “I’ve noticed that you don’t participate in family conversations or visit with your friends anymore.”
Once you talk about hearing loss with your loved one, you should encourage them to take a simple action and to continue on the path toward a hearing loss solution. To start, have them contact a hearing specialist.
