Q: Dr. Jane Kukula, AuD

My mother has trouble hearing but won’t use hearing aids. How can I convince her to improve her hearing?

A:There are many things people misunderstand or simply aren’t aware of when it comes to hearing loss. Even those with hearing loss often don’t understand their condition and the implications. Many times people feel it is simply their choice to hear or not hear. But the truth is, being able to hear impacts more than communication, being able to hear enhances your life in many ways.

First, hearing impacts your ability to communicate with others. Good communication makes for healthier more satisfying relationships increasing feelings of belonging, love, and joy. There is less isolation, and feelings of being left out. Second, hearing increases your awareness of our surroundings. For example, hearing someone’s footsteps as they approach, the whistle of the kettle or the beeping of a kitchen timer. Plus, sound and conversation stimulate the brain and helps keep cognitive function stronger. Studies show that those who maximize their hearing are more active. This leads to a healthier lifestyle both physically and socially, and creates memories and happy times. The more engaged with life you are, the more you contribute. Being able to contribute increases our feelings of usefulness, self-worth and confidence.

Share this article with her, hopefully she will find good reasons to improve her hearing. Talk with her about it, show her your concern and share what you see happening. The hardest step is the first step, scheduling an appointment of a hearing evaluation. After that is will be surprisingly easy and beneficial. Life Sounds Great!

The Hearing Center Advanced Audiology

Concepts 8897 Mentor Avenue Mentor, 44060 440-205-8848