Have you ever been out to dinner with a friend or loved one when, in the midst of the conversation, you happen to notice they have a piece of food stuck in between their teeth?
What do you do? Do you tell him/her immediately and risk them being embarrassed in that moment or do you hold off and allow them to find out on their own?
I think we would all agree that the first option is the best. Why?
While staying silent may spare you a bit of awkwardness, it will create greater embarrassment for them, especially if they don’t notice it for several hours.
And we all know that part of being a good friend is doing hard things that may cause us pain in order to relieve the pain of our friends.
Make no mistake about it, it can be awkward to tell a loved one that his or her hearing loss is affecting your relationship with them, especially if it’s a parent or spouse.
So what do you do? What is the best way to go about addressing the issue?
Here are a few helpful tips for navigating this sensitive situation.
- Embrace the awkwardness
No matter how many times you’ve run through the conversation in your head, the thought of sitting down with your friend may still be nerve-wracking and anxiety inducing. Instead of trying to get rid of these feelings, engage them.
The meeting may not go exactly as you’d hoped it would but that’s okay. Your friend will see your heart and care for them and that will be enough. Your loved ones will understand how hard it must have been for you to bring this up and they will thank you for it.
- Listen well
It’s a good idea to plan out what you want to say but also be sure to plan on listening. This is an important element of the process that many people neglect. Decide in advance that you will actively listen to what they have to say. If your friend feels valued, they are far more likely to respond well and to the seek treatment you are suggesting.
- Walk with them
Once you raise the issue of hearing loss, let them know that you will help them in any way possible. Be willing to drive them to appointments if need be, help them sort through the information they will have to process, research reputable Hearing Centers in your area and send them the information, etc. Do whatever it takes. The end result of this will not only be improved hearing for them but also a deeper relationship between the two of you.
If you have a friend or loved one who is suffering from hearing loss and doesn’t know it, formulate a plan to talk with them about it and take action.
We refuse to settle for less than the best and we hope you will do the same.
