Saturday, April 28, 2018

Tips For Handling A Husband Hard Of Hearing

By Sarah King


Getting older isn't easy. Many seniors start to see signs that their bodies are beginning to wear out. If you have been married for a long time, you know when your spouse is changing. You might notice your husband is turning the television up louder than usual or missing half of what you say. Even though he denies it, you suspect you have a husband hard of hearing.

He may not want to admit it, and getting him to see an audiologist might be a real struggle, but you must do whatever necessary to convince to get his hearing tested. You might need to set up the appointment, drive him to it, and keep him company in the waiting room. If you're right and he has a problem, you both have to decide what to do next.

The audiologist will sit down with both of you and explain exactly what the issues are, how much loss there is, and what your spouse can expect going forward. The doctor may recommend hearing aids or cochlear implants as the best course of action. It's not a life threatening situation however, and your spouse has time to decide how he wants to handle it.

There are things you can do to make communicating with your partner easier and more effective. When you talk to him, look directly at him. You might touch his hand, face, or back to get his attention first. Avoid trying to have a conversation with the television on. Background noises make it hard for him to understand what you are saying. Don't yell or speak like you are talking to someone who doesn't understand English.

When you're in public places where you can't avoid background noise, it's okay to point or gesture in some way to make yourself understood. Don't cover your mouth, smoke, or chew when you are talking. Communication can be frustrating, especially in the beginning, but you have to be patient. It's not his fault he can't hear. If both of you can find ways to laugh about it, so much the better.

You shouldn't feel like you're the only one who has to make all the accommodations. Your husband will have to adjust to the situation as well. It will be helpful if he lets you know whenever you are doing something that confuses him. He will have to confront public situations. Figuring out the best way to do it is his responsibility. At last, your husband will have to listen carefully when you talk.

It's very important that you plan what to do in an emergency. There are special devices available to help with this. They can be visual, auditory and tactile. Some vibrate, and others flash.

Hearing loss is not fatal. It is inconvenient, and it has to be addressed. There are simple ways you can both accommodate the situation to make it less stressful. Communication, patience, perspective, and humor are good first steps.




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