As Valentine’s Day approaches, you may be wondering how your hearing loss may affect your relationships, not only with your significant other, but also with family members and friends.
Hearing loss can have a negative impact on your interpersonal relationships, but can be avoided if you take the necessary steps to recognize your situation and adequately address it.
The importance of communication
Communication is a necessary component of a successful and healthy relationship. The loss of even the smallest interactions between two individuals can affect their relationship. These interactions include simple day-to-day conversations about trivial matters or those of the utmost importance. An interruption or cessation of communication between two individuals may lead to frustration, resentment, and ultimately, a complete collapse in intimacy. The end result is two people who feel isolated from each other and lonely.
The effect of your hearing loss on loved ones
The Hearing Loss Association of America reports more than 48 million people in the United States have some form of hearing loss, yet only 20 percent of individuals between the ages of 55 and 74 who would benefit from hearing aids are actually using them.
Placing the burden of your hearing loss on your loved ones will negatively impact your relationships with them. For example, it is aggravating and disheartening to have to repeat oneself constantly, and the frustration your significant other feels can build gradually until he or she becomes irritated with the situation.
If you are in denial about your hearing loss or refuse to treat it, your loved one may feel frustrated. Instead of being part of a loving relationship, your significant other may come to view his or her role as interpreter, instead of spouse.
The following are other ways hearing loss can affect your relationships:
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Less participation in shared activities
- Difficulties communicating
- Limiting social interaction
- Loss of companionship
What to do
Recognizing that you are experiencing hearing loss and addressing it by taking corrective action is key to restoring and maintaining the communication necessary for healthy relationships.
Depending on your individual hearing loss situation, hearing aids may be the best solution. You should keep in mind that other hearing loss solutions are available, however, including implants, assistive listening devices, and surgery. Taking action will greatly enhance your quality of life, while also improving your social interaction with friends and loved ones. You will find you are able to enjoy life with the same vigor you had before hearing loss began impacting your life.
If you believe your relationships are suffering due to your hearing loss, there is hope. Contact a hearing specialist as soon as possible to determine what can be done to mitigate the impact of your hearing loss.
