Despite how common hearing loss is, misconceptions and a lack of understanding persist. Here are some things that people with hearing loss wish you knew. This can help you understand more about hearing health and support your loved ones with hearing loss.
It’s Not Just About Increasing the Volume
A common misconception is that people with hearing loss only need sounds to be louder. In reality, hearing loss often affects the clarity of sounds rather than the volume. Words can sound muffled or indistinct, and simply turning up the volume doesn’t make them clearer. People wish others understood that sometimes, speaking more clearly, and facing the person with hearing loss can be far more helpful than just speaking louder.
Hearing Loss Can Be Exhausting
Listening with hearing loss requires a significant amount of concentration and energy. The effort to focus on lip-reading, context clues, and piecing together parts of words can be mentally draining. Individuals with hearing loss want others to know that if they seem tired or need to step away from a conversation, it’s not disinterest but rather a need to recharge.
It Can Affect Anyone at Any Age
There’s a stereotype that only the elderly experience hearing loss. This is far from the truth. Hearing loss affects people of all ages, including children, teenagers, young adults, and seniors. This stereotype can lead to a lack of empathy or understanding for younger individuals with hearing challenges. People with hearing loss wish others recognized that hearing loss doesn’t discriminate based on age.
Hearing Devices Don’t Cure Hearing Loss
While hearing aids and cochlear implants can help a lot, they don’t restore hearing to “normal.” They amplify sounds and make it easier to hear, but they also have limitations. People with hearing loss want you to know that even if they’re using a hearing device, it doesn’t mean they can hear perfectly in all situations.
Lip-reading Isn’t Easy
While many people with hearing loss develop some lip-reading skills, it’s not a perfect solution. Not all English words are clearly distinguishable on the lips, and factors like poor lighting, facial hair, or even accents can make lip-reading even more challenging. Understanding these limitations can foster more patience and empathy in communication.
Social Gatherings Can Be Daunting
The noisy, bustling environment of social gatherings can be particularly challenging for people with hearing loss. Background noise can drown out conversations, making it difficult to follow along or even respond appropriately. Knowing this, a little patience and understanding can go a long way in making social situations more inclusive. People with hearing loss wish you knew they’re trying their best to participate, and may sometimes need a little extra help hearing.
Hearing Loss Can Be Invisible, but the Struggle Is Real
Because hearing loss is often “invisible,” it can be easy for others to forget or dismiss the challenges that come with it. Individuals with hearing loss wish for their struggles to be acknowledged and respected, even if they’re not immediately apparent.
Emotional and Mental Health Impacts
Hearing loss isn’t just a physical condition; it also has profound emotional and mental health implications. Feelings of frustration, isolation, and anxiety are common, and support from friends and family can make a significant difference in coping with these feelings.
A Little Goes a Long Way
Small acts of consideration can have a huge impact on someone with hearing loss. Checking in to see if they’ve understood a conversation, being mindful about not covering your mouth when speaking, and showing patience are all simple yet powerful ways to support someone with hearing challenges.
They Want to Be Included
Lastly, people with hearing loss want to be fully included in life’s moments, conversations, and activities. They don’t want their hearing loss to define their abilities or limit their opportunities. Inclusion means making the effort to ensure they’re part of the conversation, whether that involves modification in communication methods or leveraging technology to bridge the hearing gap.
Visit Us For More Support
Hearing loss is a complex and deeply personal experience that varies widely among individuals. The good news is that we can foster a more inclusive, empathetic, and supportive environment for those impacted by hearing challenges. We can listen, adapt, and show compassion in our interactions with those experiencing hearing loss.
If you or a loved one has hearing loss, reach out to us for more support.