01/31/2023
Signs Your Loved One May Need Hearing Aids
Most of us experience hearing loss as we get older – it is just a fact of life. However, it can be hard for people to notice their own hearing loss, especially when it comes on slowly. The good news? Nobody needs to live with untreated hearing loss. If you think a loved one might be experiencing loss of hearing, check out our list of signs and symptoms below. Then, learn how you can support them in their journey to better hearing health.
Have you noticed your friend or family member…
Asking you or others to repeat themselves? This is one of the most common signs of hearing loss. When a loved one is constantly asking you what you just said or asking you to repeat things, they may be experiencing diminished hearing.
Turning up the volume on the TV or music? Is the television or radio always uncomfortably loud when you visit? Or do they ask you to turn it up when visiting you? This is another common sign of untreated hearing loss.
Complaining that people are mumbling? Hearing loss sometimes causes the inability to hear certain frequencies and sounds, which makes it seem like other people are not speaking clearly. It can also make some sounds appear distorted or muffled.
Ignoring you when your back is turned? They are likely not ignoring you; they just cannot hear you. Many people with hearing loss come to rely on lip-reading to help. However, if the speaker’s back is turned or if their lips are covered, they might not be able to hear the conversation at all.
Exhausted after social interactions? A little-known side effect of hearing loss is fatigue. When the brain struggles to make sense of sound, a person gets tired – both mentally and physically. If your loved one starts withdrawing from crowded social events, this might be why.
How to support a loved one with hearing loss
According to the AARP, 80% of adults between 55 and 74 years old who need hearing aids do not use them. Perhaps your friend or family member is resisting trying out hearing aids. Our practice has found the following talking points useful to start a meaningful conversation about hearing health:
• Today’s hearing aids are discreet and stylish. The days of bulky and unsightly hearing aids are over. We offer hearing devices in a wide variety of models, styles, and colors!
• Hearing aids allow better communication with everyone. Point out that one person’s hearing loss can affect the entire family. Talk about the sounds and memories you do not want them to miss. Better hearing can lead to improved communication in relationships and at work, too.
• Go ahead and name drop. Let them know that lots of celebrities and musicians wear hearing aids. For example, Nils Lofgren from Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band and Bryan Hitt from REO Speedwagon both wear Oticon More™ hearing aids.
• Point out that hearing aids keep the brain healthy. Research shows untreated hearing loss is associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline. Proper use of hearing aids can lower a person’s risk of dementia and other conditions.*
We like to say that Hearing Care is Health Care™. That is why our practice offers Oticon BrainHearingTM technology, which supports the brain in working more effectively. Oticon’s hearing aid solutions help the brain hear more naturally.
*Amieva et al. Self-reported hearing loss, hearing aids, and cognitive decline in elderly adults: a 25-year study. 2015.
