{"id":3663,"date":"2020-12-04T18:05:29","date_gmt":"2020-12-04T18:05:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/decibelhearing.com\/?p=3663"},"modified":"2020-12-04T18:05:29","modified_gmt":"2020-12-04T18:05:29","slug":"how-does-hearing-loss-impact-your-relationships","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/decibelhearing.com\/how-does-hearing-loss-impact-your-relationships\/","title":{"rendered":"How Does Hearing Loss Impact Your Relationships?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Your hearing loss is not a personal problem; it affects all those around you. Numerous studies have shown that when left untreated, hearing loss<\/a> can put strain on even the most secure relationships.<\/p>\n

Relationship Strain<\/h2>\n

\"Man<\/h2>\n

A 2019 study titled \u201cHearing Loss as a Social Problem: A Study of Hearing-impaired Spouses and Their Hearing Partners\u201d<\/a> looked at the social implications of hearing loss on romantic relationships. Through a series of interviews, the researchers found that \u201cboth the hearing-impaired participants and their close partners bemoaned the loss of spontaneity and the difficulties of sharing small unexpected incidents, observations and small talk in their everyday interactions.\u201d<\/p>\n

Back in 2010, researchers interviewed 23 people with hearing loss and their partners. In their report, titled \u201cIn it together: the impact of hearing loss on personal relationships,\u201d<\/a> the researchers found that hearing loss changed the content and nature of communication with their partner and affected social activities.<\/p>\n

The partner with normal hearing also impacted the relationships. The researchers reported that even supportive partners had a difficult time truly understanding their partner\u2019s hearing loss, including understanding listening fatigue and how background noises interfere with their ability to hear well.<\/p>\n

Improving Your Communication<\/h2>\n

The key takeaway from these hearing loss and relationship studies is the importance of communication. While untreated hearing loss<\/a> may slowly chip away at shared intimacy and connection between partners, talking to each other about hearing loss is a small step to repair this damage.<\/p>\n

Talking to Your Partners About Their <\/em>Hearing Loss<\/h3>\n

If you suspect your partner is living with untreated hearing loss, try talking to them about it. Make sure to select a time when you are both in a good mood and have enough time to have an undisturbed conversation. Avoid coming off as judgmental and rather present the facts:<\/p>\n