Christmas is a time where families come together, a time where rooms are filled with conversations and laughter, and where Christmas music is played from the middle of November. Indeed, we all look forward to coming together as one family, but for those struggling with hearing loss, it can be a time where one feels left out and isolated from the conversation.
It is important to address this topic in a supportive way, highlighting how common hearing loss is, with 1 in 3 adults in the UK having some form of hearing loss. Hearing loss isn’t something to be embarrassed about and it is something that can be easily checked. It is important to chat about hearing loss, not only with your older relatives but also younger people in your family. Not only could this important conversation reduce the risk of dementia through the introduction of hearing aids but also help a family member feel less alone, not at Christmas but all year round.
As a family member of someone with hearing loss, it is important to offer encouragement and practical support, emphasising the fact that seeking help is a positive step towards a better quality of life. One shouldn’t ignore hearing loss, like they wouldn’t ignore another health concern, responding to hearing loss can reduce the likelihood of mental health problems and social isolation.
Research from the Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) shows that 1 in 8 adults in the UK, out of 2,197 people that they surveyed are concerned that a family member might be living with undiagnosed hearing loss.
The conversation can be simple, if you notice a family or friend who might be missing out due to hearing loss, here are a few tips to start the conversation:
- Make sure the timing is correct: It is best to have this chat one on one with your family member, to save them feeling put on the spot about something they might not want to discuss with the whole family. We recommend taking time to have this conversation on your post Christmas lunch walk, in a setting that is calm and comfortable.
- Highlighting that fact that it isn’t something to be ashamed about. Hearing loss is common, especially with an ageing population, highlighting this fact will help your family member to feel less alone.
- Share relevant information about hearing loss, outlining how easy it is to get your hearing checked, for example, using Boots Free Hearing Test facilities. By choosing to do this, your family member will be provided with all the relevant information regarding their specific type of hearing loss, and also given options on what to do next.
Here at Signature, we would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas! This blog aims to highlight the benefits of speaking to your family member about hearing loss. Having this one important conversation can reduce social isolation and will ensure the whole family gets to enjoy the big day!
