Helping a parent with hearing loss
You've repeated yourself three times at dinner. The TV is loud enough to hear from the driveway. You're not imagining it, and you're not the only one who's frustrated.
Why they might resist
Hearing loss comes on slowly, so most people don't notice it in themselves. Many also picture the bulky, whistling hearing aids of decades ago, or worry that admitting it means getting old. None of that makes them stubborn. It makes them normal.
How to bring it up
- Pick a calm moment. Not right after a misunderstanding.
- Talk about connection, not loss. "I miss our phone calls" lands better than "you can't hear."
- Suggest a test, not hearing aids. A hearing test is just information. There's nothing to commit to.
- Offer to come along. We encourage it, and many parents relax when family is in the room.
What you can do today
Call us with your parent, or on their behalf, and we'll answer your questions. To book an appointment we'll need your parent's OK, but you're welcome to ask us anything first.