If you have a loved one who experiences hearing loss, then it is only natural that you might be concerned for how this change affects their life. There are real risks associated with untreated hearing loss, from feelings of depression and isolation to an increased rate of falls and other accidental injuries. Fitting hearing aids with the help of an audiologist can be a great solution, but how do you convince a family member to try it if they’re reluctant?

Be on their side

First, the very first point to remember is that this is a topic that should be handled gently, and with care. As with all things related to our health, our experience of hearing loss can be deeply personal to us. You don’t want to go too hard in pushing hearing aids on your loved one, as they can associate the treatment with that pressure and react adversely to them. Rather, you should focus on the benefits and seek to address any concerns that they might have so that they are more assured in making the choice for themselves.

Stick to the facts, not emotions

It’s not unfair to say the loved ones of people who live with hearing loss can be affected by the condition, too, but you shouldn’t try to leverage emotion, even if your intentions are good. Rather, stick to the facts of what makes hearing aids beneficial. You can talk about, for instance, the technological advantages. Bluetooth connection to better hearing sounds from devices like the TV and phone are an example. For older adults, the fall alert that comes as a feature with many hearing aids could sound like a worthwhile investment, too.

Focus on the difference it could make to their lives

Your family member might be reluctant to try hearing aids because they believe they are perfectly happy with the hearing as is. While you don’t want to overload them with negative implications of their lifestyle, you should focus on the positive changes it can make for them in future. They can better talk to friends and family members on the TV, they can be more independent at shops, banks and they can even enjoy music better as a result. Focus on the potential positives, not the current negatives.

Talk about the cost

Hearing aids are an investment in your overall wellbeing. When considering how frequently you will use your hearing aids and their average lifespan of up to five years, the costs associated with these devices are minimal. Even better is having a more accurate idea of what the costs will be with the help of an audiologist who can help guide you through the market. They may even be able to help identify payment plans and other ways to save on the costs of buying hearing aids.

Be willing to assist them

If you’re playing the role of the advocate for hearing loss intervention, then you should also be willing to be with them all of the way through their treatment if they want you to be there. Being there to ask questions on their behalf, to take note of information they might need and simply to offer some emotional support can do a lot of good for their peace of mind.

Get to know their concerns

We’ve already addressed a few of the common concerns that people have about getting a hearing aid fitted, but if you want to know how to best convince someone to take action, you should get to know their own direct concerns. For instance, if they are worried about how they look, then learning that there are highly discreet, invisible hearing aids could offer them some peace of mind. Talk to your family member, let them know that you are there to listen to their concerns, and take them seriously. Don’t just dismiss them out of hand, see if there are ways to work with them or solve them.

Where to go from here

If you have been able to convince a family member to try hearing aids, or you can at least have them agree to meet an audiologist to talk to it personally, then it’s recommended you learn more about Peninsula Hearing. You can get in touch with us in Poulsbo by calling us at 360-697-3061 or in Port Townsend by calling at 360-379-5458.