For the last three years, I’ve shared a home with my roommate, who has severe hearing loss. Together we’ve laughed and learned and, along the way, I’ve picked up tips on communicating better, staying patient, and making small changes that make life easier for both of us. If you live with or spend time with someone who has hearing loss, you might find these tips useful too:
Go to Appointments Together
Joining my roommate at her audiology appointments has taught me so much about hearing health and assistive technology. I’ve watched hearing tests being conducted, heard the audiologist explain her hearing loss, and was even asked to share my own observations about her ease of hearing in various situations. Hearing loss often progresses gradually, so friends and family can give an important outside perspective. Plus, these appointments can be emotional, and having a friend there can show support and assist in remembering tips and advice from the hearing care professional.
Get to Know the Technology
As the “geek squad” of our household, I was particularly interested in learning about adjustments my roommate can make to her hearing aids from her smartphone app. If she needs a boost while listening to someone, she can increase the volume of her hearing aids discreetly by a simple slide mechanism on her hearing aid app. With several listening environment options, I was able to later discuss and help my roommate find settings that would be most helpful in environments that she frequents such as busy restaurants, church service, and her fast-paced retail job.
Hands-On Help
We take several long-distance road trips per year which means taking turns driving every few hours. Breaking the monotony of the rumble of the road, my roomie’s “train horn” will inevitably come through – a signal that warns her of the hearing aid battery’s imminent death. While she’s driving, I have become skilled at replacing a dead battery with a tiny new one to keep the hearing aid powered through the next few days. I’ve also learned how to clean and properly store her hearing aids in a dehumidifier overnight. These small steps keep them working well and keep our adventures on track.
Make Communication Easier
Restaurants with booming music, packed seating arrangements, and echoey ceilings are difficult for anyone to converse, but can be especially frustrating for those with hearing loss. Before inviting friends out, we check reviews on apps like SoundPrint to find quieter spots that allow easier conversing. At the table, we try to opt for good lighting and tables where she can sit in the middle to see everyone’s faces and body language, which makes conversations flow better. The summer provides even more options as outdoor seating greatly reduces the echo of other guests.
Sure, we’ve had to spend a little more time and focus on ensuring hearing technology and environments are suitable for my roommate with hearing loss, but with the right support, technology, and a sense of humor, communication can get easier and the fun can be all inclusive. Today’s hearing aids are incredibly powerful, discreet devices that can keep someone engaged in the activities that they love. Don’t hesitate in speaking to a licensed hearing aid professional about options that may be most suitable for your or a loved one’s hearing needs.
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