Dealing with hearing loss

According to Hearing Australia, more than half of the population aged 60 to 70 years old have hearing loss. This increases to more than 70 per cent over the age of 70, and 80 per cent for those aged 80 and over.

But when it comes to hearing loss, what are the signs to look out for, what can you do and how can you help others cope?

Spotting the signs

There are some tell-tale signs that point to hearing loss. These include:

• Asking people to repeat themselves
• Having difficulty following a group conversation
• Muffled sounds
• Difficulty distinguishing between sounds in noisy places
• Volume levels are too high on the TV or radio
• Being unable to hear the doorbell or phone
• Constant bussing or ringing in the ears
• Discomfort caused by loud noises

What to do about it

A large problem associated with hearing loss is that many people don’t act on it straight away.

In fact, statistics show that most people wait, on average, seven years to do something about it. This can lead to a lower quality of life by adapting to the new circumstances, rather than doing something to improve the situation. Struggling to follow a group conversation may mean not taking part in it at all, discomfort caused by loud noises or noisy places may mean you start going out less. Of course, not being able to hear properly can also be quite dangerous. You may miss warning sounds such as smoke alarms or traffic.

The first thing you need to do is accept that hearing loss happens. But remember, it doesn’t need to wreak havoc on your life.

Step one is letting those around you know that you are struggling with your hearing. Then start the investigation process. Ask your healthcare teams whether there’s something that can be done. Medication, surgery, hearing aids or devices and other tailored solutions can help. But you need the right support, from your loved ones and from your doctors.

Getting your hearing checked is quick and painless. And it could result in a drastic improvement in your ability to hear and in your ability to live your life to the fullest.

Helping someone with hearing loss

If you notice a loved one is struggling with hearing loss, there are things you can do to help.

Encourage them to go for a hearing test, and if they need, offer to go with them for support. In the meantime, speak slowly (but not too slow) and clearly, and face them when you are talking to them so they can see your facial expressions. Importantly though, don’t shout. If you think they haven’t heard you properly, rephrase your sentence, and try to reduce the background noise if you can.

Most of all though, be understanding and don’t get frustrated. Chances are, they’re much more frustrated with the situation than you are.

Specsavers Eastgate Bondi Junction is now offering audiology services. Book in a free 15-minute hearing check at specsavers.com.au/hearing or call (02) 9060 7844.