How To Get My Partner To Get A Hearing Aid?

Hearing loss can affect 15% of all Americans at some point in their lives. Still, while the majority of these people will seek assistance through their audiologist in the form of hearing aids, there is a minority who are resistant to accepting their condition. When it comes to relationships, this attitude towards hearing loss can have a strenuous effect on communication and everyday life. If you believe your partner is experiencing hearing loss, but they are reluctant to seek help, here are some ways you can convince them that a hearing aid is best for them, you and your relationship. 

Communicate with one another

Communication is vital when it comes to discussing medical issues. If you believe that your partner’s resistance to seeking hearing loss treatment is impacting your relationship, you must vocalize these concerns with them. It could be that they did not understand the strain it is putting on you, and if you can explain your feelings with compassion, it could help convince them to seek advice from an audiologist.

Reach out for assistance

If you are unable to convince your partner alone, you can consider reaching out for assistance from close friends, family, and even an audiologist. Often, partners are considered too close to the issue to provide a suitable opinion. However, hearing concerns from others, without sounding as if they are merely parroting what you believe, can provide valuable perspective and help your partner come to terms with the reality of their hearing loss. 

Provide the facts

Opinions and beliefs can only go so far, though. If your partner is still resistant to advice or pleas from others, then presenting them with indisputable facts and information could sway them to think more about the hearing loss they are experiencing. When faced with this medical information regarding potential issues that can arise from ignoring hearing loss, they may come around to the idea of using a hearing aid. 

Offer the opportunity for talking points and discussion

Talking points will allow you to present statistics and discuss them in a safe environment. Some of these talking points include how those who experience hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia, as well as the potential for loneliness and mental fatigue if the issue is not addressed quickly. 

Give them information on hearing aids

Even if your partner recognizes that they need a hearing aid, they may be stubborn about accepting help from an audiologist. This is the case with many people who experience hearing loss initially. However, most people using hearing aids for the first time are surprised that they are unlike what they expected. With modern advancements in hearing aid technology, they are more comfortable, lightweight and come with an array of features that ensure a seamless transition for using one. 

Share success stories

Success stories can help those experiencing hearing loss recognize that the treatment is never as bad as they think it will be. You can use testimonies from people who have used a hearing aid, and if you know anyone with positive experiences of using a hearing aid personally, encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings.

Ask yourself if you enable them

While stubbornness is one reason people refuse hearing aids, you could also be enabling them. It is worth asking yourself if you have adapted your speech by speaking louder or repeating yourself when talking to them, which could make your partner believe they do not need a hearing aid. 

Visit the audiologist together

It could be challenging for your partner to admit they require a hearing aid, and they may be resistant or even scared to visit the audiologist. You can help them in this by being supportive and visiting the audiologist together. This will make them feel more comfortable while you can also share your experiences to give the audiologist a better idea of the extent of your partner’s hearing loss. 

Lead by example

You can encourage your partner to get a hearing aid by being a positive example for ear health. This means you can take annual hearing tests to check the status of your hearing and choose the correct measures if you discover you also experience hearing loss. Being a positive model can help your partner recognize their need for a hearing aid. 

Get in touch today

If you suspect your partner of experiencing any degree of hearing loss, speaking with your audiologist about having a hearing aid fitted could be the solution. To learn more about Hinderliter Hearing Services, get in touch today at 248-430-8425 and speak to a qualified audiologist for advice and guidance.