Convincing a loved one that they need to address a hearing issue can certainly be a challenge. Better hearing can be easily demonstrated as we outlined in a previous blog post. Here are a few other ideas.
Share your concerns with their primary physician, clergy person, or someone they have a strong relationship with. This is an approach to help get things going in the right direction. Some people will listen with intention when it comes from a trusted source.
Education allows for thoughtful questions and conversation. There are easy books to read on untreated hearing loss. One of our favorites is Hearing and Brain Health by Andrew Campbell. There are an incredible number of YouTube videos and podcasts that may resonate. Preaching rarely helps but planting seeds can have a positive impact in the future.
If they admit they have a hearing problem but won’t do anything about it, ask them why and acknowledge their concerns. It may help to introduce them to a happy hearing aid wearer. You may be surprised at the number of acquaintances, people in your family; or circle of friends who wear hearing aids. These folks can be your best advocates.
Your concern is admirable, but as we previously stated, it’s impossible to convince someone that they have a problem when they do not believe that a problem exists.
Let us know if you have any other ideas. And as always, we’re here to help.