We live in a busy world - we work, care for family and socialise. We have so many opportunities in life to allow hearing loss to get in the way. So, suspecting that a loved one may have a hearing problem, may feel daunting but taking a hearing test is the best first step.
It’s not always easy to recognise when someone’s hearing is declining, and it’s even harder to persuade them to take a hearing test. In this guide, we’ll help you identify the signs of hearing loss and give you actionable tips to encourage a loved one to take a hearing assessment.
Signs that a loved one needs to take a hearing test
To combat hearing loss, we must first recognize the indicators of hearing loss. You may have noticed that a loved one is acting distant or confused. It may appear that they are just not listening, or are distracted.
The first signs of hearing loss might include:
- having trouble hearing conversations
- asking people to repeat themselves
- turning the TV volume up louder than normal
- feeling discomfort in noisy rooms
- often missing a phone or the doorbell ringing
If they experience these problems, they need to visit an audiologist for a hearing assessment.
What is a hearing test?
There are two main types of hearing tests; a hearing screening and a full hearing assessment. A hearing test is a simple test to gauge the levels of hearing and includes hearing a series of sounds at different frequencies.
A hearing assessment is more thorough, including an examination of your ear health, a discussion with the audiologists, and a test with sounds in different frequencies. If needed, the audiologists will fit the patient's hearings aids. The tests are free, easy, painless, and help us improve the lives of patients.
Why do people try to ignore hearing loss symptoms?
Hearing deteriorates gradually, so some people may not notice hearing loss symptoms or realize they're experiencing them. However, a common reason for trying to ignore symptoms is that people with hearing loss experience a drop in self-esteem, This is because they can no longer communicate with others, or because hearing loss is commonly associated with age.
Others might think that a hearing assessment is expensive and that the problem will resolve on its own if they wait long enough. Whatever the reason, the hearing problem should be addressed as social withdrawal can lead to serious emotional problems.
4 tips to persuade a loved one to take a hearing test
1. Acknowledge the problem
The first thing you should do is start the conversation about hearing loss. Find a quiet, calm place and explain your difficult experiences with them. You might want to remind them of instances when they couldn’t hear you or give them specific scenarios when they asked you to repeat yourself or turned the TV volume louder and louder.
2. Help them understand that this is a common problem
The most important part is to make them understand that hearing loss is a common condition, and there’s nothing to be ashamed or scared of. Help them understand that protecting their ears is the best thing they can do for their physical and mental health.
3. Discuss your concerns
Be frank and open. Open up about feeling that they are losing important moments of their lives and how easy it is to solve it. Listen to their concerns as well. Allow them to express their concerns and emotions about the changes in their lives and try to comfort them.
4. Take a hearing test with them
Taking a hearing test with your relative might help them feel more at ease. Encourage them by undergoing a hearing test to show them how easy it is, and set an example for them.
Support and encourage your loved ones
Hearing loss can be a lonely experience and your loved one needs all the support you can give them. If you are concerned about your loved ones being affected by hearing difficulties, or you think their hearing is getting gradually worse, you can contribute to their wellbeing by raising awareness about the benefits of an early diagnosis. Offer them your support on their path to better hearing health, and remind them that the first step is to have a hearing test.
If your relative is afraid to take a hearing test and you want to bring them to an audiologist who will understand their concerns arrange a hearing test with M&S Opticians. Our expert team will make sure your loved ones feel comfortable and make the process as smooth as possible.
Find your nearest M&S Opticians store and book your appointment.