Talking about hearing loss

Steer the conversation towards things you’ve noticed when you’re both out and about. You could ask, “Do you find it quite difficult to hear people in noisy environments?” or, “I’ve noticed you don’t like going to restaurants as much anymore? Is there a reason for that?”

They may not realise the degree of their hearing loss and may be unaware you are having to change the way you interact with them. You could point this out so they are aware that their hearing loss impacts those around them.

There are a few misconceptions that people have about hearing aids and hearing loss. You can try explaining to them that you wouldn’t put up with poor eyesight and that your hearing is no different.

Hearing aid technology has advanced remarkably in recent years. Today’s devices are smaller, smarter and more discreet than ever — in some cases, they’re almost invisible when worn. Modern hearing aids not only improve hearing clarity but also enhance overall quality of life, helping you stay connected, confident and engaged in every conversation.

It’s important to remember that hearing loss is very common and affects people of all ages, especially as we get older. Reassure your loved one that they’re not alone — hearing changes are a natural part of ageing, and support is readily available. With today’s advanced hearing aids and professional care, managing hearing loss has never been easier

Acknowledge that you know they aren’t big on change, but some changes are fantastic. Seeing an audiologist or audiometrist to get their hearing tested can be life changing.

It’s wonderful that you’ve tried to start the conversation. Many people find it difficult to accept that they may have a hearing problem and can become defensive or dismissive at first. If that happens, don’t be discouraged — give it some time and try again in a few weeks. With patience and understanding, they may be more open to discussing their hearing and seeking the right support.

Dining out is one of life’s great pleasures — a chance to enjoy good food and connect with others. However, for people with hearing loss, busy restaurants and background chatter can make conversation difficult. Choosing quieter venues, requesting a table away from high-traffic areas, and avoiding peak dining times can make a noticeable difference.

Modern hearing aids equipped with directional microphones and noise-reduction features can also help by enhancing speech clarity and minimising background noise. With a little preparation and the right technology, dining out with hearing loss can remain an enjoyable and stress-free experience, allowing you to focus on great company and great food.

For the best dining out experience, Amplifon recommends open-fit receiver-in-the-ear hearing aids, where appropriate for an individual’s type of hearing loss. Devices with advanced features, such as adaptive directionality and automatic environmental optimisation, can significantly improve listening comfort in noisy environments.

In addition, assistive listening devices, such as mini microphones, can further enhance speech clarity, making it easier to follow conversations in busy restaurants.

Whether attending a birthday meal with friends and family or a lunch with colleagues, individuals should be able to enjoy dining out while comfortably hearing those around them. Following these strategies and using the right technology can make social occasions more enjoyable and less stressful.

For anyone experiencing hearing difficulties, it is recommended to book an appointment with a trained audiologist. Regaining hearing can help individuals fully experience and enjoy life’s best moments.