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When it comes to hearing loss, our connections with others are more important than ever. Of course we all rely on our loved ones, friends, and family for support and assistance to navigate the complications of life. Yet hearing loss makes it even more crucial to rely on the support of others. When we move through the world, communicate at social events, and interface with public organizations and amenities, we rely on people who have an easy way to converse. Our friends and family members deserve a debt of gratitude!
Yet, some people with hearing loss find that it actually takes a toll on their closest relationships. Rather than building a feeling of mutual reliance and connection, hearing loss can drive a wedge between us. Let’s take a look at some of the potential for strained relationships due to hearing loss before turning to consider the vast benefits of treatment for not only the person with hearing loss but loved ones, as well.
Hearing Loss and Intimacy
A recent report by the organization Action on Hearing Loss titled “In it together: The impact of hearing loss on personal relationships” investigated the ways that hearing loss extends beyond the individual whose hearing is compromised. Those loved ones who share their lives with a person who has hearing loss also feel the ripple effects of struggle and limitation. Some of the 23 respondents to this study admitted that they received positive support from their intimate partners, families, and friends. Yet some of these respondents also admitted that there were things their loved ones simply could not understand. Experiences such as fatigue and the struggle with background noise can be understood in the abstract, but only person who has engaged in the battle to converse can truly understand what it feels like. Hand-in-hand with the feelings of connection in these intimate relationships were feelings of being misunderstood.
In some instances, a person with hearing loss can even vent frustrations on loved ones. The struggle to communicate certainly takes its toll on emotional resilience, and family members can take the brunt of this taxing roller-coaster. Hearing loss has been correlated with a range of mental health outcomes, including anxiety and depression. When a person with hearing loss struggles to have a conversation in a social setting, some would prefer to avoid these events altogether. This feeling of isolation can lead to emotional strain for the whole family.
Treating Hearing Loss
Fortunately, hearing loss assistance and treatment is developing at a rapid rate, and solutions are available for many forms of hearing loss. Once a person has received treatment for hearing loss, the positive effects on loving relationships create a ripple of positivity that extends throughout the family and community. Where once it might have been difficult to communicate, feelings can now be freely expressed. Important information can be shared among all members of the family, and no question needs to go unanswered due to the inability to hear it. The relief that a person with hearing loss feels when they receive assistance can lift the mood of the entire family. We know that communication is the foundation of any strong relationship, and verbal conversation is the quickest and easiest way to share and express with others. With the ability to engage in fluid conversation restored, the entire family can feel the benefits of the free flow.
If you have a family member, friend, or loved one who might be experiencing hearing loss, the time is now to have a conversation about treatment options. The first step is to find the right environment and time for a gentle conversation. Simply ask a concerned question about the possibility of hearing loss, and then listen with open ears. You might find that your loved one is eager to seek treatment options but has been reticent to do so without assistance. Once you have an appointment for a hearing test, your hearing health professional will be able to recommend a range of assistance options that can have lasting benefits for your relationships and for your entire network of loved ones. Families thrive on healthy communication, and treatment for hearing loss is a step in the right direction!