DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO HAS HEARING LOSS?

More often than not, it is ones friends and family that notice the hearing impairment of an individual long before that individual does. They may notice that their loved one turns the volume up very loud on devices such as the TV, music player and radio; perhaps it is difficult for the individual to follow conversations when they are with their loved ones in a restaurant or café. Maybe the individual even struggles to hear what young children are saying.

If someone you know is suffering from untreated hearing loss, you will probably notice their social behavior has changed. They may have withdrawn from social activities and may express feelings of shame, guilt or anger. They may also become more selfcritical, frustrated or depressed. These kinds of behaviour can have a negative effect on anyone who is near and dear.

If you spend a lot of time with someone who suffers from untreated hearing loss, you may find you regularly have to repeat what you say. They may ask you to explain things more often, and may depend on you to amplify what other people have said, whenever they feel the need. You could easily become a supplement to the person’s ears, and while this may help your loved one cope with the situation, you’ll probably feel exhausted by the end of the day. Becoming aware of the numerous efforts you make to ‘translate’ could be an important first step towards your loved ones hearing treatment. Realizing the extent of the support they need may empower you to take action, on behalf of you both.

Accepting ones hearing loss is a big event in a person’s life. When confronted, some people simply deny it and in these cases, it may take courage, patience, and persistence to get a loved one to accept they have hearing loss; it takes everyone time to come to terms with hearing loss. The good news is that everyone can, and most can benefit from hearing aids.

To book your free hearing test today, call 1-866-991-6793 or visit HearingLife.ca/RTIR-ZOOM