Do you know someone who is losing their hearing but refuses to get a hearing aid? This can be a very difficult situation to be in. On one hand, you are concerned for the other person and want him to get help, but on the other, you don’t want to offend him or make him feel bad about himself.
Many people find themselves in this situation. While it won’t be easy, having a talk with this person can be of great benefit for the both of you.
When starting this conversation, be sure to keep your tone calm and caring. Trying to force someone into doing something he doesn’t want to do may only make things worse. Try to explain to him how his hearing loss is affecting you.
You could try explaining that the problems is a safety issue. Or that you are frustrated having to repeat yourself all the time when talking with him. It may not be easy for him to hear that he is causing you problems, so try to do it in a non-accusatory way.
If that isn’t enough, try explaining some of the more serious consequences of hearing loss. For example, people with hearing loss are at higher risk for depression and other serious health complications. Let this person know that he is doing himself more harm than good by not getting his hearing problems resolved.
Finally, you can explain that hearing aid technology has come a long way. Hearing aids today are lightweight and barely noticeable. Hearing aids are not something to be embarrassed about, and the changes he will see in his hearing will be remarkable.
Tell him at the very least he should have his hearing tested.
Hopefully, with this advice you are able to convince your loved one with hearing loss to consider getting a hearing aid. Remember not to force him into anything and for this decision to be the most effective it has to be made by the person with hearing loss. If you make your arguments clear and from the heart, the outcome will be more positive for both of you.