Hearing Loss and Healthy Relationships

January 17, 2023

Healthy communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship. It is how we express ourselves, share our inner worlds, and make jokes, offer support, and profess our love.

Healthy relationships are an ever-evolving process that can be disrupted by poor communication, leading to feelings of frustration and isolation. In some cases, poor communication is due to hearing loss, which can have a direct impact on relationships.

Consequences of Untreated Hearing Loss

Hearing loss affects 48 million Americans, making it the third most common condition in the US. It can be caused by aging, exposure to loud noises, or other factors. Hearing specialists recommend that people over 50 should have an annual hearing exam, just like a physical or eye exam.

The signs of hearing loss can be subtle at first, such as turning up the volume too high or asking someone to repeat themselves multiple times. Untreated hearing loss can lead to a decrease in speech recognition, making it difficult to understand what people are saying.

It can also increase the risk of dementia, falls, and hospitalizations, and can lead to lower wages. It can also cause stress, anxiety, depression, and isolation. Treatment of hearing loss can help people return to their normal lives and engage in social activities with confidence.

How to Talk to Your Loved One about Hearing Loss

It is estimated that people wait seven years from the time they first experience signs of hearing loss until they seek treatment. This can cause the neural pathways that transmit sound signals to become dull from underuse.

It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration. Talking about hearing loss can be a sensitive topic, so it is important to do research on the signs, exams, and treatment options available. Choose a calm time and a quiet place to have this conversation with your loved one. They may already be feeling anxious about their hearing, so it is important to open up channels of communication to discuss frustrations and fears, and to set a course of action together. Supporting your loved one through this transition can help strengthen your bond.

The Benefits of Getting Hearing Aids

Hearing aids are a great way to improve your hearing and quality of life. They can help you hear better in a variety of situations, from noisy environments to quiet conversations.

With hearing aids, you can better understand the conversation around you, and enjoy activities such as movies, music, and even conversations with family and friends.

Whether it’s watching a movie or enjoying a family gathering, improved hearing can make these activities more enjoyable. You’ll be able to hear and understand conversations more easily, and you won’t have to strain to hear the dialogue in your favorite movies

More importantly, hearing aids can help you feel more confident and socially engaged. If you’re struggling to hear conversations, you may feel socially isolated and embarrassed. Wearing a hearing aid can help you feel more confident and engaged in social situations.

Overall, hearing aids can be a great way to improve both your hearing and your relationships.

If you're wondering if hearing aids might benefit you, contact us to schedule a consultation. Our experienced audiologists provide mobile services in New York and New Jersey, including hearing testing, hearing aid fittings and more. Contact us today to schedule!

Written by
Reviewed by
Dr. Emma Durazzo
Owner & Doctor of Audiology
Read full bio

With years of experience and continued professional training, Emma Durazzo (formerly Emma McCue) has developed her expertise in a variety of subspecialties within the scope of audiology.