The sound of a loved one’s voice is unmistakable. Even newborns respond to the sound of their mother’s voice before they understand her words. So, when our ability to hear our loved ones diminishes, it has a profound impact on relationships. And it doesn’t just affect the person with hearing loss, those around them struggle too. It’s frustrating, isolating, and sometimes frightening to lose that special connection. As a hearing instrument specialist, it is my distinct mission and privilege to restore meaningful sound to your relationships. Hear More Associates understands the relationship challenges for the hard of hearing, and we are here to help.
Relationship Challenges Caused by Hearing Loss
Conflict- The first struggle most people encounter is a difference of opinion about the problem. If your hearing loss is gradual, you may not notice how often you turn up the volume, ask others to repeat themselves, or miss out on cues like the telephone ringing. If a loved one presents the problem to you, it may cause tension if you don’t agree, or don’t want to face the problem.
Miscommunication- Perhaps you are aware of your hearing decline, but enjoy the peace and quiet. In reality, you might be missing critical information like crucial details of a conversation or a subtle tone of voice. This leads to miscommunication in the relationship since you aren’t in sync with your loved one. A missed appointment, uncompleted task, or lack of response might be perceived as hurtful when it’s actually the result of hearing loss.
Frustration- It’s frustrating to miss out on sounds, and the disappointment extends to your friends and family. When they frequently have to repeat themselves, tolerate excessive volume, or handle all of the timers buzzing, doorbells ringing, and texts coming through, life becomes very tedious. This irritation breeds resentment that shouldn’t have to occur.
Health Issues- When you listen to music, television, and movies at high volumes to counter hearing loss, you make the problem worse. And if that’s not enough to make you seek treatment, it damages your loved one’s hearing too. Your health is also at risk if you can’t decipher important sounds like honking horns, fire trucks, or smoke alarms. Your relationship health suffers because you’re putting your family’s physical health at risk.
Emotional Distance- Hearing loss is isolating for yourself, as well as your friends and family. It’s disheartening to know that a loved one can’t hear you, and it creates division in the relationship. Your friends and family might seek other people to confide in or socialize with if you can’t listen to what they’re saying. When there is a communication breakdown, it affects the wellbeing of everyone involved and leads to loneliness, as well as a reduced desire to interact.
How a Hearing Test Heals Your Relationships
Sometimes it’s hard to admit that we need our hearing checked. But when you think about all relationship challenges caused by hearing loss, it’s easy to take that step. At Hear More Associates, we provide the best hearing solutions from the top manufacturers. We are trained in the latest technology and testing procedures to restore the sound of the voices you love the most. Don’t let your relationship suffer when the answer is just a click away. Contact us today!
