If you have a family member with hearing loss, you know how difficult communication can be. When you try to make plans, coordinate basic details, and have group gatherings, you can find that each of these communication tasks become quite difficult. If you are becoming frustrated with the communication environment in your family due to a loved one with hearing loss, don’t lose hope! There are practical steps you can take to improve your family’s communication and conversations, and you might be surprised at the effect a few of these tips can bring. Although these approaches to improving communication with your family can make a difference, the only durable solution for hearing loss is professional treatment, so keep in mind that you will need to encourage your loved one to schedule a hearing test.
Asking about Accommodations
When it comes to hearing loss, each person’s experience of the world and communication is quite different. One person might prefer others to speak more loudly, for example, while others find this to be embarrassing or uncomfortable. If you have a loved one with hearing loss, the first step you can take is to ask what they prefer. You might be surprised at the specific requests they have for you, and some of them are things you might have thought about. Rather than following your own intuition about improving communication with a loved one who has hearing loss, begin by asking what you can do to help them.
General Principles of Communication
Beyond these specific requests, there are some general principles of communication that you can keep in mind. We use a combination of sensory stimuli to put together meaning, and our ears are not the only resources we have for communication. When you are speaking with someone who has hearing loss, keep in mind that you can provide visual cues, for example. Avoid calling out from another room in the house. This approach to communication muffles the sound of your voice and prevents that person from seeing your face while you talk. Instead, try to stand within direct eyeshot of your family member. Whether they realize it or not, they are likely to watch your mouth movements and other aspects of your body to put together a meaningful conversation.
Facilitating Group Conversations
When you are assembled together as a family, this group context can be among the most difficult for your loved one. A family dinner at a restaurant can be a combination of difficult circumstances. When you are trying to communicate, the background sound can be quite loud, whether coming from the din of other voices in the room or background music. Seating your loved one at the end of a table makes it difficult to stay involved in the conversation. When you find yourself in a group setting with your family member who has hearing loss, you can take practical steps to facilitate their communication. As an advocate, you can seat yourself close to that person, serving as a relay when conversations are difficult to hear. Rather than simply repeating what others say, you can rephrase in a way that provides more context. Remember not to answer for your loved one. Instead, try to work carefully and tactfully as a translator when you notice your family member having difficulty hearing others.
Treatment for Hearing Loss
Despite the benefits of these approaches, the only durable solution for hearing loss is to get professional treatment. When you encourage your family member to get assistance, you will be pointing toward a future where communication is easier, clearer, and independent. The first step is to get a hearing test, so try having a conversation with your family member about the possibility of hearing loss. When you have this conversation, remember to ask open questions rather than giving directions right away. Listening to their experiences with hearing loss is a great way to set the stage for getting treatment. Once your family member is ready to get a hearing test, our professionals will be able to guide you through the process of getting treatment. Our recommendations of hearing aids will be suited to your family member’s individual needs, ultimately improving the communication environment of your family.
