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Hearing loss can put a strain on even the most stable relationships. No matter which spouse loses their hearing, both are forced to adjust to a new normal because of the challenges hearing loss presents.
Hearing loss can negatively affect established relationships if it isn’t managed properly or fully understood. This may come as a surprise given nearly one-fifth of Americans have hearing loss – hardly a small amount. However, because of its prevalence, it’s important couples are prepared to tackle the problems that may arise if hearing loss rears its ugly head.
If you and your spouse are struggling with the effects of hearing loss on your relationship, you’re certainly not the only ones. A large number of couples struggle to communicate with the same frequency and nuance as they once did after receiving a hearing loss diagnosis.
You may recognize these feelings have crept into your relationship lately:
The important thing to remember is that hearing loss is no one’s fault. It can be caused by any number of factors out of your control, like noise exposure, ototoxic medicines or aging. What you do have control over is how you handle hearing loss and move forward as a couple.
You are not necessarily doomed to divorce because of this obstacle. You have likely gone through many trying times together, such as losing a loved one, combatting a serious illness, raising children together, moving to another city or state and renegotiating your respective roles in the relationship as you’ve grown older. When you rose to each challenge, you likely became a stronger couple because of it.
Coping with hearing loss is no different. The following strategies may help you resolve some of the negative emotions you feel and rebuild your relationship:
According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, more than 28 million American adults could improve their quality of life with the help of a hearing aid. Despite this, most people who could benefit from hearing aids never try them – including approximately 84 percent of eligible 20- to 69-year-olds. Among those who have tried hearing aids, a large percent find that they have had a positive impact on their marriage.
At West Texas Rehabilitation Center, our audiology team will work with you to find the best hearing tool for your level of hearing loss. We have a wide variety of new hearing aids to choose from at every price level, and we also offer hearing aid repair. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about the performance of your device – we offer a 60-day trial period to make sure you’re seeing results, as well as cleanings every four months free of charge!
If you’re interested in trying a hearing aid or receiving cochlear implant services, contact us today at our Abilene, San Angelo or Ozona locations.
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