This time of year is meant to be enjoyed with friends and family alike. It’s a chance to catch up on the previous year and look ahead to the next one.
We often associate the holidays with gatherings and shared meals. Even though these are enjoyable, the real enjoyment comes from conversing with your loved ones.
This may seem like a mundane act, but to some, this is a dream come true.
Keeping up with a conversation in a noisy room can be highly challenging for those who suffer from a hearing loss. This is particularly sad considering everyone else around is having so much fun.
As an audiologist, I want to prevent this as much as possible. I want to bring awareness to those that suffer in silence and help them get back to looking forward to the holidays.
All too often, patients wait too long to address their problem. Waiting will only make the issue worse. With such a fantastic time of year upon us, it’s more important than ever to ensure your hearing or that of a loved one is in good health.
I want this article to help families who deal with hearing loss all year round. If your loved one is having trouble getting the courage to seek help, then take our advice below.
Why Does Hearing Loss Go Untreated?
Unfortunately, the biggest threat against healthy hearing is a lack of treatment and awareness. Hearing loss happens gradually, and because of this, people learn how to adapt to their changing hearing.
They get better at reading lips and faking their way through a conversation, so nobody notices that they do not fully understand. This happens for various reasons:
Financial Issues – Not having insurance or not knowing about the many ways to get help is a huge deterrent for people. There are more ways than just insurance to get the help you need. Healthy hearing is more affordable than most people think.
Lack Of Education – Many people don’t realize that hearing loss can lead to other medical issues outside of your hearing. Balance and cognitive problems can arise if left untreated long enough. This includes dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Vanity – Appearance plays a prominent role as well. People grow up thinking hearing aids are for older adults and are a sign of aging. This way of thinking will only lead patients to further problems. Besides, with the advanced technology in hearing aids these days, they are much more discreet.
Tips For Addressing Hearing Loss In A Loved One
If you’re living with someone going through this right now, then getting them professional help is a priority. This may be easier said than done, as we have had many experiences with people forced to get help.
Our advice is to get your loved one excited about correcting their hearing. Try these helpful suggestions to point out all the good things that come from treating hearing loss, especially during this time of year.
Approach With Sensitivity – Your loved one may not feel comfortable speaking about their issue. It’s important to let them know that you care about them and want them to be happy. Your support could be the nudge they need to seek help.
Comprehensive Hearing Assessment – This is the first step in addressing any hearing problem. It’s a non-invasive way for us to investigate the inner workings of how a patient hears. This gives us the information to develop a plan for moving forward and improving your loved one’s hearing.
Support The Process – Explaining what happened at a hearing test will take some of the fear out of seeking help. You can offer your assistance throughout the entire process and even offer to get one yourself. It’s never too early to take care of your hearing.
What To Do When Your Loved One Wants Help
Once your loved one is ready to act on your suggestions and get the help they need, all you have to do is schedule a hearing assessment and come in on that day.
We can take it from there.
I have the training and expertise to gently explain the situation to your loved one, so they fully understand the significance of healthy hearing. I also want them to know how much more enjoyable life is when they get their hearing back.
This time of year is perfect for addressing these issues so the whole family can get together and enjoy each other’s company without resentment.
If you have any more questions, you can always call me and I’d be happy to help.
I’m here for you and your loved ones.
