Valentine’s Day is a moment to spend a little extra time with your partner. If you’re among the 15% of U.S. adults with hearing loss, getting hearing aids is one way you can make that time even more special.
The Benefits of Hearing Aids
With untreated hearing loss, misunderstandings can happen more often, and it’s easy for both partners to feel disconnected or frustrated. Hearing aids can help strengthen your relationship in several important ways:
- Clearer speech. Hearing aids help make speech clearer, easing daily conversations and reducing frustration for both you and your partner.
- Deeper emotional connection. Hearing aids help you notice subtle cues that indicate tone or emotion, making it easier to understand how your partner is feeling.
- More shared moments. Hearing aids make everyday activities, like watching TV, spending time with friends or going out to Thirsty Lion for a special Valentine’s dinner, feel even more special.
In addition to wearing hearing aids, you can employ a few helpful techniques to improve communication with your partner.
Communication Techniques
Try a few of the following techniques in addition to wearing your hearing aids:
- Look at each other. Speech and visual cues work together to help you understand your partner. When you’re having a conversation, make a point to do so face-to-face. Not only will it aid comprehension, but it can bring you and your partner closer.
- Reduce background noise. It’s easy to fall into the habit of talking over the TV or radio, but all that background noise can impede understanding. If you want to have a meaningful conversation, set the tone with a quiet, distraction-free environment.
- Avoid shouting. When two people can’t understand each other, it’s common that they will raise their voices. Unfortunately, raised voices usually only come off as angry. If you don’t hear something, ask your partner to rephrase themselves rather than raising their voice.
Communication is a two-person job. By relying on your hearing aids and practicing practical communication techniques, you can enjoy a renewed sense of closeness. For more information on managing your hearing loss, contact River ENT today.
