Asking questions and showing support

Because everyone has different experiences and emotions about their hearing loss, it’s important to recognize and respect personal boundaries. The impact of hearing loss on family members is often significant, and hearing aids can create a positive change by improving communication and interpersonal dynamics. But just like other health issues, some people are more comfortable talking about personal things than others, and it often makes sense to leave that up to them.

If the person with hearing loss or hearing aids brings up the topic, carefully listen and gauge their comfort level. You may want to start by asking, “Are you comfortable with me asking questions?” Or, simply follow their lead and ask clarifying questions about what they’re already sharing. Avoid asking others things you wouldn’t be comfortable answering yourself, and in general, keep the focus on the person rather than their hearing loss or hearing aids.

If you’re looking for additional ways to be an advocate, be mindful of someone’s hearing loss without making them feel isolated. For example, if you’re meeting up with a friend who wears hearing aids at a cafe, briefly check in with them about where prefer to sit (perhaps away from a speaker playing music or a large group of people). If you notice them asking “what?” repeatedly or they appear to have trouble following the conversation, consider asking if they’d rather move to a quieter table or another location altogether. Aim to find a balance between making sure they’re comfortable and can hear, while recognizing that they may also prefer to take care of themselves.

Ultimately, the methods of communication used by individuals living with hearing loss are similar to those used by everyone else—speaking slowly and clearly, looking people in the eye, and repeating phrases when asked are all helpful and appreciated. Just like eyeglasses, hearing aids help people experience life to the fullest. Understanding the nuances of hearing loss will allow you to relate to others and support them in a way that fits their needs and preferences. Discover what benefits you should take advantage of at your next appointment.