Hearing loss affects approximately one in three U.S. adults between 65 and 74. If someone in your family lives with hearing loss, you know how much it can impact understanding. By combining hearing aids with thoughtful communication strategies, you can create a sense of dignity and connection, regardless of hearing loss.
The Difference Between Helpful and Unhelpful Communication
Many people with hearing loss feel like they’ve lost a sense of control over their lives. This feeling can be especially magnified in older adults with other medical conditions. The way people in your life interact with you can significantly affect how you deal with these challenges.
For example, if you struggle to hear and your family members respond by simplifying their language as if they’re speaking to a young child, a phenomenon known as elderspeak, feelings of inadequacy and loss of control can amplify.
If, instead, family members focus on thoughtful communication strategies that accommodate you without talking down to you, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to move about the world independently.
How Can I Foster Thoughtful Communication?
A few ways you can foster thoughtful, respectful communication include:
- Don’t over-enunciate. Speak at a normal pace and enunciate clearly to help your loved one follow conversations without undue strain. Make sure you’re not speaking slowly or overenunciating, as these methods can appear condescending.
- Rephrase your speech rather than repeating. Your loved one likely has certain sounds they struggle to hear, and repeating alone won’t always close the information gap.
- Sit face-to-face when communicating with your loved one. Seeing facial expressions and gestures helps provide context to missed words.
- Reduce background noise. Turning off music or relocating from busy family gatherings to quieter rooms helps preserve clarity. Try swapping busy dinners for family picnics at Tuscawilla Park for easier communication.
- Ask what they need. Your loved one knows best what they need. Ask how you can accommodate them and respect their choices.
Can I Talk to My Loved One About Hearing Loss Treatment?
In many cases, people with hearing loss deny that they have any trouble hearing or insist that they manage well enough without treatment. Avoid pressuring them to pursue hearing loss treatment. Instead, open a dialogue about how you’ve noticed hearing loss affecting their lives.
Remember that hearing loss is an emotional experience, and people need to go at their own pace.
Encourage your loved ones to seek hearing loss treatment, but do your best not to sound as if you’re making demands. When people feel heard and respected, they’re less likely to dig their heels in.
Striking a Good Balance
Balancing patience, respectful communication and thoughtful environmental adjustments empowers parents to retain independence and connection. With simple communication strategies, you can strengthen your relationships and ensure everyone remains fully engaged in life’s best moments.
For more information on treating hearing loss, contact Beneficial Hearing Aid Center today.