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Talking about hearing loss with a loved one

Q: Schedule an appointment with a hearing expert

After having recognised and accepted one's hearing deficit, the action phase begins. It is therefore recommended to book an appointment with a hearing specialist. It is normal for the patient to have concerns during this process, so try to let your loved one experience this appointment as an opportunity to explore his or her hearing situation and available remedies, without pressurising them into making a hasty decision. There are several strategies to reduce tension such as: thinking about sharing a short video that illustrates the typical procedure of a hearing assessment and ensuring your presence during the appointment.

Q: Having an empathetic, kind and gentle approach

Dealing with a hearing-impaired family member can be a challenge, and it is natural to feel frustration. However, the best approach is with empathy, compassion and positivity. Solutions can often be found with empathy, compassion and positivity. It is crucial, however, to underline that there are health risks if a hearing loss goes untreated and that frequent repetition and isolation on special occasions can make their social life difficult. Consider exploring an initial online hearing test together, such as the one offered by Amplifon can be a first step. Use the results of this test to reinforce your viewpoints and start a dialogue to obtain a professional hearing assessment.

Q: Recognise personal health impacts

Many people may underestimate the emotional, cognitive, and physical impact of hearing loss. It is critical that those with hearing loss realise that its effects go beyond simple communication and social interactions. Studies have revealed correlations between hearing loss and a number of health complications, including dementia, depression, and an elevated risk of falls resulting in injury. In addition, research has shown that loneliness can have deleterious effects on health, comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Last update on Mar 27th, 2024

Starting a conversation about hearing loss with a loved one or family member requires sensitivity. Although it can be a challenge, the advantages of sincere conversation brings far outweighs the initial discomfort that may exist between the two parties. Amplifon offers practical tips to help you approach this discussion with empathy, offering indispensable support in approaching this topic with care and understanding.

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4 steps to help you discuss hearing loss

When approaching the topic of hearing loss with a loved one, empathy, knowledge of possible solutions, emotional support and gentleness are crucial.

Here are four steps we recommend you follow when talking to a person suffering from hearing loss.

Schedule an appointment with a hearing expert

After having recognised and accepted one's hearing deficit, the action phase begins. It is therefore recommended to book an appointment with a hearing specialist. It is normal for the patient to have concerns during this process, so try to let your loved one experience this appointment as an opportunity to explore his or her hearing situation and available remedies, without pressurising them into making a hasty decision. There are several strategies to reduce tension such as: t hinking about sharing a short video that illustrates the typical procedure of a hearing assessment and ensuring your presence during the appointment.

Examine financial factors

The cost of hearing aids can be an issue that often deters people from seeking care. It is crucial to emphasise to loved ones that there are strategies and solutions to suit every budget.

Assess whether your health insurance provides coverage for hearing aids and associated services.

If your health insurance company works with Amplifon, their programme offers comprehensive aftercare, essential supplies such as batteries or charging stations and a 3-year warranty covering loss, repair or damage.

Find out about the interest-free financing options offered by Amplifon.

As your loved one prepares for his or her hearing needs, Amplifon is ready to simplify the process and improve his or her path to better hearing.

Having an empathetic, kind and gentle approach

Dealing with a hearing-impaired family member can be a challenge, and it is natural to feel frustration. However, the best approach is with empathy, compassion and positivity. Solutions can often be found with empathy, compassion and positivity. It is crucial, however, to underline that there are health risks if a hearing loss goes untreated and that frequent repetition and isolation on special occasions can make their social life difficult. Consider exploring an initial online hearing test together, such as the one offered by Amplifon can be a first step. Use the results of this test to reinforce your viewpoints and start a dialogue to obtain a professional hearing assessment.

Recognise personal health impacts

Many people may underestimate the emotional, cognitive, and physical impact of hearing loss. It is critical that those with hearing loss realise that its effects go beyond simple communication and social interactions. Studies have revealed correlations between hearing loss and a number of health complications, including dementia, depression, and an elevated risk of falls resulting in injury. In addition, research has shown that loneliness can have deleterious effects on health, comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

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When is it necessary to talk about hearing loss with a loved one?

At the first signs of hearing loss, it is essential to establish a dialogue. Some signs of hearing loss may be

Increasing the volume of television or radio to higher levels than before.
Withdrawal from social life.
Difficulty following conversations in noisy or crowded environments.
Frequently asking others to repeat what they have said.
Difficulty hearing high-frequency sounds.
Lack of awareness of environmental noises.
Feeling tired or stressed after participating in conversations.

Refusing the use of hearing aids

Relatives and friends may show reluctance or resistance toward the adoption of hearing aids due to various factors:

Some fear that the use of hearing aids may accentuate the feeling of aging.
Some suffer additional medical consultations.
Some fear the financial aspect from the purchase of hearing aids to the associated costs.

Therefore, it is important to explain to them that all these are only concerns and that in Amplifon centers our specilists will take care of them all round.

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