You’ve probably been repeating and explaining things for so long that you don’t even realize you’ve become an enabler, acting as your loved one’s personal hearing device, say hearing experts. Unfortunately, this just causes your loved one to continue to put off needed treatment.
Hearing technology has changed radically in the last five years, including improved digital devices. Suggest that your family member take a trial run, Hoffman says. “Hearing aid manufacturers are required to let you test products for 45 days and return them for a partial or full refund if you’re not happy.”
Introduce your loved one to people who are coping well with their hearing aids, suggests New York audiologist Elizabeth Davis. They can provide a realistic picture of what to expect, what worked for them and how good it feels to easily hear what’s going on in the world.
Trying to hear when you have a problem can be exhausting, frustrating and at times humiliating. “People don’t want to be shouted at or treated like someone who isn’t smart,” Hoffman says. Speak normally but a bit slower, and try not to switch too rapidly from one topic to another.
Wherever you are, pay attention to lighting and background noise. At home, keep lights bright so that the person with hearing loss can see your face and lips and better understand what you’re saying. When you go out, choose a quiet restaurant or ask for a table in a less noisy area.
Hearing aids don’t work very well in the dresser drawer. Make sure your loved one uses them and sees a hearing care professional regularly for adjustments and maintenance.
Margery D. Rosen is a New York City-based writer specializing in health and psychology.
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