A hearing loss can be very difficult to accept. Fortunately, hearing clinics can provide lasting solutions to people who are dealing with hearing loss, as long as they are ready to face the facts.
Here are 8 things you can do to convince a loved one to visit a hearing clinic to get their hearing checked.
1. Stop speaking louder or repeating yourself
If a loved one is constantly asking you to speak louder or to repeat yourself because they have trouble hearing you, stop complying with their demands. If you keep accommodating them, it will not give them any motivation to seek treatment for their hearing loss.
2. Tell them a few facts about hearing loss
You could start a conversation with your loved one by telling them a few facts about hearing loss. For example, did you know that hearing loss affects men more than it affects women? Did you know that hearing loss could have different causes?
3. Let them know how you feel about the situation
If your loved one is in denial about their hearing loss, let them know how you feel about this situation. Maybe you are tired of being asked to repeat yourself, or maybe you are sad because communication between the two of you is getting more and more difficult.
4. Ask them how they feel about the situation
You should also ask them how they feel about the situation. Are they denying that they have some trouble hearing, or are they simply afraid to get their hearing checked? Do they feel like hearing aids are annoying or not effective?
5. Encourage them to get their hearing checked
Now that you have both discussed how you feel about the situation, try to encourage your loved one to visit a hearing clinic to get their hearing checked. Tell them that they have nothing to lose, and that hearing loss can get worse if it is left untreated for years.
6. Explain how hearing aids could change their life for the better
If your loved one thinks that hearing aids are not for them, try to explain them how these devices could change their life for the better. Hearing aids technology is better than it used to be, and these devices can be very comfortable, and nearly invisible.
7. Research what will happen during the hearing test
If your loved one agrees to visit a hearing clinic, you could make some research with them to help them find the right one. You should also help them learn more about what will happen during and after their hearing test.
8. Accompany them to the hearing clinic
Finally, ask your loved one if they would like you to accompany them to the hearing clinic. Maybe the fact of not going to their hearing test alone could reassure them and help them feel more at ease.
