If you’re noticing that an older loved one is having a harder time hearing than they used to, you might be wondering how to approach the topic. Helping a loved one with something like this is important, but it can certainly be a really tough thing to do.
Hearing loss is not an easy thing to deal with. When it happens gradually over a long period of time, it can be even more difficult. The person struggling with this might not even notice that the hearing loss has occurred, making an open and honest discussion about the topic really tough on everyone.
There are some things that you can do to make the conversation about hearing loss a little bit easier. For starters, having these kinds of conversations early on in the process is important. It makes it a lot less likely that someone will feel attacked when you bring up a tough subject like hearing loss. Having this conversation with a doctor or hearing specialist present can also make it a little bit easier–as long as your loved one doesn’t feel like they are being ganged up on.
Be prepared to back up what you are saying with facts and not just emotions. Many people don’t respond well to hypothetical situations but are a lot more likely to listen if you rely on things that can be explained and thought through logically. Bringing literature (like a pamphlet) or having a website ready to help back you up can also be useful. However, you know your loved one better than anyone else; all of these ideas and tips should be used in a manner that will help them out.
Above all else, remember to be patient. This is not an easy thing for you or your family–but the one who is impacted the most is the person actually struggling with hearing loss. Be patient, kind, and loving as they navigate this journey. They will require time and may need to talk through things multiple times to feel okay about it.
It’s also important to note that some of these strategies can also be used to help a loved one in other areas or with other struggles, too.
Oftentimes, hearing loss isn’t something that can be reversed. It’s something that can be accommodated for much of the time, though. Hearing aids are one of the most helpful tools out there, but depending on the needs present, different types of hearing aids will be more useful than others.
If you or a loved one are dealing with hearing loss and you’re ready to talk about what to do about it, please get in touch with a doctor. A medical professional will be able to better help answer questions and connect you to the things that will help out the most.
And, as always, if you have questions about senior care, we are here to help out. Please give us a call if you would like to learn more about how in-home care can help you and your family thrive.
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