Taking the first step to address your hearing loss by getting a hearing test is a huge deal. Many people find it helpful to have a loved one go with them to offer support and provide insight as they make decisions to help improve their hearing health.
Hearing Loss Impacts Relationships 
Hearing loss doesn’t just impact the person experiencing it, it affects their loved ones as well. Because hearing difficulties often come on slowly and worsen over time, it can take years before a person seeks treatment for their hearing loss.
During that time, your loved ones, in particular spouses or partners, have likely had to compensate for your hearing loss in ways you might not even realize.
A 2009 survey asked people with hearing loss how it had affected their relationships:
- 44% said that their relationships with loved ones had suffered because of their hearing struggles
- 69% said their hearing loss interferes with their ability to participate in conversations
- 34% noted that they had lost touch with a friend or had their marriage end as a result of communication issues
By bringing a loved one to your audiological exam, they can help offer additional insight into your hearing loss and the ways it has impacted your ability to communicate.
Your Loved One Can Help You Make Hearing Aid Decisions
If you’re found to have hearing loss, the most likely treatment is hearing aids. Modern hearing aids come in many different styles and have numerous potential features to help maximize your listening experience. While having these options is great, it can be a bit overwhelming.
To that end, it will be helpful to have another person there who knows you to help decide things like:
- What model of hearing aid best suits your lifestyle?
- What features could you most benefit from?
- Would an assistive listening device be helpful?
- Do you need accessories that go with an active lifestyle, like sweatbands to protect your device?
Support as You Start Your Hearing Health Journey
Even after finding the right pair of hearing aids, there’s a lot to adjust to. Your ears and brain have to get used to a new way of hearing, and there can be some bumps in the road as you find out what settings work for you in different environments. It will take time for you to feel comfortable going out to louder places like Kettner Exchange.
Having a loved one there to support you through your entire journey can help reduce your stress and let you trust the process as you seek to improve your hearing.
For additional information or to request an appointment call San Diego Hearing Center today.