Hearing loss is a common chronic condition affecting millions of people annually. While it can affect anyone, it does become more common as you age. Data tells us that among adults aged 20-69, age is the strongest predictor of hearing loss, with the greatest amount of hearing loss occurring in the 60-69 demographic.
If you feel like a parent, spouse or other older loved one has developed hearing problems, you may be wondering how to talk to them about taking steps toward treating their hearing loss with hearing aids. Thankfully, there are ways to make the conversation easier and more productive for you both.
Choose The Right Moment to Talk 
Hearing loss can be a difficult subject to talk about, so choosing the right time to talk can make the process easier. Avoid any large family gatherings like holidays, birthday parties or times when you know your loved one is especially stressed. Instead, try to find a quiet, relaxed time for you to have a one-on-one conversation about your concerns.
Be Clear and Offer Examples
Being compassionate but direct when discussing your loved one’s hearing problems is important. Note examples that you’ve witnessed, like the fact that they need to turn up the volume on the TV to uncomfortably loud levels or that they seem to struggle following along during conversations at the family dinner table.
Focus on the Positives of Treating Hearing Loss
You don’t want the conversation to veer too negative. Rather, discuss the ways you’ve noticed hearing loss has impacted their lives, as well as the benefits of treating hearing loss. For example, if they’ve been avoiding their weekly book club meetup at Oregon Mountain Coffee Company, you can discuss how hearing aids can make that easier for them.
Be Understanding if They Express Hesitation
There’s a chance your loved one may express hesitation about getting hearing aids or even be skeptical that they have a problem at first. Instead of getting frustrated, try to understand where they are coming from. Acknowledge any doubts or concerns they might have, and if you feel the conversation is taking an unproductive turn, suggest tabling it for another time.
Help Them on Their Hearing Loss Journey
If they aren’t ready to seek treatment after the initial conversation, that’s okay! For many, these conversations can be a process as opposed to an isolated event. Hearing aids and other treatments are only beneficial to those who are committed to using them.
If your loved one expresses an interest in speaking with a hearing specialist, offer to help in whatever way you can. That might involve helping them with hearing aid research or scheduling and accompanying them to their audiological evaluation and any follow-up appointments. Knowing that they don’t have to do everything alone can make the process of seeking treatment more manageable.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact Oregon Ear, Nose & Throat Center today.