When it comes to your hearing, your family is most likely accommodating you more than you realize already

Are You Compensating For A Loved One’s Hearing Loss With These Behaviors?

by | Dec 13, 2022 | Hearing Loss, Patient Resources

Hearing loss is a problem that affects millions of Americans today.

Roughly one-eighth of all people in the US will experience some form of hearing loss in their lives, which means one-eighth of all families are affected as well.

This condition can develop very gradually and without pain, so it can be easy to create habits that harbor the problem instead of curing it.

Oftentimes, we think we are doing what’s best for our families by protecting them, but when it comes to your hearing, your family is most likely accommodating you more than you realize already. 

Compensatory Behaviors

#1 – Speaking Loudly

While this may seem like a minor inconvenience at first, over time, this can develop into a source of resentment. Your family may not say everything they want to say simply because it is too much work.

Having to repeat themselves all the time is also taxing, especially if the decision has been made not to wear a hearing aid.

#2 – Translator

Similar to speaking loudly, having to translate can be equally demoralizing. When hearing loss is first identified, it is comforting to know your family is there to help.

Having a child or grandchild repeat things in conversation may seem like a solution at first, but it is not a long-term solution.

Over time, this will lead to co-dependency and will put a strain on the family.

This may create frustration, anger, avoidance, discouragement, guilt, and many other emotions that will affect your family dynamic.

#3 – Pleading For Help

In some cases, the hardest part about getting help is asking for it. You may have already experienced a loved one asking you to get help.

While this may not sound like “pleading,” it may have taken a long time for that person to work up the courage to approach you.

Sometimes these requests can come off as nagging or bothersome when in reality, your loved one is suffering silently, and they don’t know what else to do.

The longer the problem persists, the more aggravating the situation can become.

#4 – Keeping You Company

You may find your family constantly inviting you to events and gatherings, and your initial reaction is to decline.

This could be an attempt at preventing you from isolating yourself too much.

With hearing loss, it is easy to withdraw from social functions, as it is more comfortable to be at home where there is nothing to hear.

If there are no sounds, then you are not missing anything.

But your family is trying to help by preventing isolation and encouraging good mental health.

Self-isolation has led to an array of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and dementia, to name a few.

How You Can Help

comprehensive hearing assessment is the first step to repairing any damage caused to family relationships.

This will show that you appreciate all their love and hard work, and you want to repay them by getting the help you need and deserve.

You can also speak to your hearing specialist at Ascent Audiology & Hearing about any of these issues, as we have the training and experience to help you right now.

Do you know somebody that needs to see this? Why not share it?

Daniel Hewson

Born and raised in Western New York, Dan Hewson comes to our practice with over 19 years of experience in the field. With a master’s degree in audiology from SUNY Fredonia, Mr. Hewson has extensive experience working in several of the largest Otolaryngology practices in the country, and also as a Regional Manager with Siemens Medical Audiology Division. Father, husband, and full-time employee with us, Dan is currently a student working to earn his doctorate in audiology; it should be completed by 2018.

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