If you’ve noticed a loved one struggling with their hearing, you may feel worried or unsure about how to approach the topic. It can be frustrating to repeat yourself or watch them miss out on important conversations, but addressing the issue delicately is key. Many people hesitate to acknowledge hearing loss due to fear, embarrassment, or simply not realizing how much it affects their daily lives.
“Hearing loss often goes unnoticed by the person affected, even when it’s obvious to those around them. For many, it may feel like everyone has started mumbling, which can be frustrating,” says Hanan Merrill, owner of Nanaimo Hearing Clinic. “Approaching the topic with care and empathy can make all the difference in encouraging them to seek help.”
Three ways to support a loved one in getting their hearing checked
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Suggest creating a baseline for hearing health:
Instead of suggesting your loved one get their hearing checked because you think they have a problem, try a different approach. Suggest that both of you get your hearing checked to create a baseline for future health and well-being. Treat hearing checkups like dental or annual medical exams, which can help eliminate the stigma that hearing tests are only needed when a problem exists. -
Don’t enable their denial:
If you've been acting as a stand-in "hearing aid" for your loved one, step back and help them recognize their reliance on you. This can encourage them to take steps toward regaining their independence through a hearing test and possible hearing aids. The next time they ask you to repeat something, gently reply with, “Oh, did you not hear that clearly?” instead of repeating it. Enabling their hearing loss will only delay them in seeking professional help. -
Avoid putting them on the defensive:
Hearing loss can be a sensitive topic, and well-meaning loved ones can unintentionally cause those with undiagnosed hearing loss to become defensive. If conversations about hearing loss often end in arguments or denial, try a more indirect approach. Websites like Phonak offer online hearing tests —complete one yourself near your loved one, share your results, and ask if they’d like to try it too. Schedule your own in-person hearing test and ask if they want to come along. These less direct methods can make loved ones feel less attacked and more open-minded.
For more hearing tips or to book an appointment with the Nanaimo Hearing Clinic for yourself or a loved one, call 250-585-4100 or visit nanaimohearingclinic.com/contact. Find Nanaimo Hearing Clinic at 501-5800 Turner Rd. in Cactus Club Plaza, Nanaimo.