Hearing loss and relationships

It is most commonly known that hearing loss affects an individual physically with a reduced ability to hear every day sounds and understand speech.

What is not commonly discussed, is the emotional impact hearing loss has on the individual and their loved ones.

• 1 in 6 of the UK adult population are affected by hearing loss
• 6.7 million could benefit from hearing aids but only about 2 million people use them
• On average it takes a person 10 years to address their hearing loss
• Hearing loss has a huge impact on relationships with a recent survey revealing 1 in 5 couples feeling disconnected over time. 

The emotional impact

When there is hearing loss, exchanges in everyday moments become misunderstood or lost. Feelings of disappointment arise when the moment has passed before the person with hearing loss has understood what their partner has said. Shared experiences become less and relationships start to become distant. 

It is common for the individual to feel like a burden for having to keep asking for repeated speech and for the partner to feel frustrated. This can lead to isolation as both parties begin to withdraw from each other, often to prevent more arguments that have been caused out of frustration and misunderstandings. Shared experiences also become less as the person with hearing loss starts to isolate themselves socially.

This all leads to a lack of physical and emotional closeness which can result in loneliness and depression. Sadness is often felt too as the person with hearing loss mourns the loss of spontaneity and for their partner as they watch their loved one become more withdrawn. 

There is help available

A hearing check can help identify early changes in hearing, so that it can be addressed before it has an impact on relationships. Communication is the key to successful relationships therefore it is important to address hearing loss to keep conversations flowing. In fact studies suggest that wearing a hearing aid can help improve physical connection and intimacy! 

We believe in the importance of staying connected with those you love and invite anyone who has noticed a change in their hearing to come and see us. If you are not noticing any problems with your hearing but you feel like your partner is struggling, encourage them to get their hearing tested and get your hearing checked too.