More than 48 million Americans suffer from hearing loss, yet only one in five people who has it wears hearing aids. Even among those who do treat their hearing loss, the average person waits seven years between being diagnosed and actually purchasing devices.
There are many reasons people may be hesitant to purchase hearing devices, including cost barriers, not wanting to admit they need help or even being afraid of “looking old.” What many don’t realize is that hearing loss doesn’t just affect you; it impacts everyone around you, too.
How does hearing loss impact relationships?
According to a 2009 British study, 44 percent of people with hearing loss reported that the condition caused their relationships to suffer, and 34 percent reported that related communication problems caused their relationship/marriage to end.
When you have hearing loss, you may find yourself misunderstanding loved ones or constantly asking them to repeat themselves. Partners of people with hearing loss tend to find themselves taking on the bulk of social responsibility, like answering the door when the doorbell rings and making phone calls to schedule appointments. The hearing-impaired partner may withdraw socially, leaving their loved one to attend events alone. Over time, this can lead to feelings of resentment.
The resentment can go both ways, however; people with hearing loss who feel isolated and alone may feel that their loved ones don’t understand or can’t sympathize with their experiences.
How Hearing Aids Help
Hearing aids renew your ability to do everyday activities with ease, like watching television, making conversation, going out to dinner, talking on the phone and so much more. When partners feel like they are being heard again, it can renew a sense of romance in a relationship that may have suffered from years of broken communication.
Studies have shown that use of hearing aids is linked to renewed confidence in one’s ability to navigate the world, increased control over life events, improved communication and more social interactions – all of which can help you have happier, healthier relationships.
For more information about how hearing loss impacts your life and to discuss options for treatment, schedule an appointment at Heuser Hearing Institute today!