Across Utah and Nevada, we have a strong sense of family. Our communities are filled with so many families that we’ve had the pleasure of meeting, and we are happy to be a part of it. My family and I love living here.
Helping families communicate and enjoy a healthier, more fulfilled life is one of the main reasons why I became an audiologist in the first place. Since I have a family of my own, I understand why so many of you are willing to help your family with their hearing.
Sometimes when we offer our help, no matter how good our intentions, it isn’t always welcome.
This doesn’t mean the person you’re trying to help is ungrateful; it’s usually down to the fact they have yet to come to terms with their challenges, so they have yet to process what you are trying to help them with.
If you’re like me, and many others I speak to daily – this situation might seem all too familiar. If you have a stubborn father or grandfather in your life who is struggling with a hearing loss, you’re not alone.
Why Are Men More Likely To Have An Untreated Hearing Loss?
While not all men are like this, I know from experience that a large majority don’t like to admit when there is something wrong that they can’t fix. Even with a loving and caring family, men can be hardheaded at times.
Therefore, we need the strength and support of a family to back us. We need a nudge in the right direction, and even if we don’t appreciate it at first, in time, we will look back and appreciate the love and support we received to get us to a better place.
As Utah & Nevada’s most trusted doctors of audiology, we want to provide support not only for those suffering with a hearing loss but also to their loved ones. If your dad, brother, uncle, or husband is having trouble hearing and you don’t know how to approach it, then this article is for you.
Since I have seen this so many times, I wanted to get the word out there on how to help your male loved ones. Hopefully, they are reading this right now, but if not, I have some advice here to relay to your family members.
First Signs Of Hearing Loss In Dad
It can be easy for men to mask their issues since hearing loss gradually presents itself. They have had time to adjust and make compensations that keeps their condition hidden.
Looking for the signs is the best way to see if your loved one is struggling. While they may think they’re ahead of the game, there are sure signs that they just can’t cover up.
“What?” Or “Pardon Me” – If you find your dad or loved one is muttering these phrases more than usual, then it’s a clear sign that their hearing is not only in decline, but it also needs some professional attention. This is the most common first sign and is usually met with humor, as the younger family members may see this as an opportunity to get in some joking remarks.
Volume Of Electronics – Nowadays, it’s easy to monitor a TV or phone’s volume. There’s a number or percentage that usually indicates the level. If you have noticed that your dad needs to listen to the TV at a higher volume, then that’s not the TV’s fault. If you live with them, I’m sure you have noticed them sneaking a few extra notches of volume.
Deciphering Multiple Sounds – This symptom is most found in public spaces such as restaurants. With so many other people around and music playing, your dad may find it more challenging to focus on the conversation happening at his own table. Blaming the music volume or the obnoxious people at the table next to him is expected and a first sign of hearing loss.
Reasons Why Dad Is Experiencing A Hearing Loss
With so many things causing hearing loss, I wanted to narrow down the list a bit to just the most common instances. Most males I see have developed a hearing loss via one of these scenarios.
The good news is our experts at Hearing & Balance Doctors are equipped to treat hearing loss that has occurred through any of the following:
● Aging
● Noise exposure
● Ear injuries
● Illnesses
Hearing loss can also be passed down through genetics.
The best way to figure out the cause of any hearing loss is to schedule a comprehensive hearing assessment with us. Here, we’ll conduct a hearing test and identify any challenges to develop a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
How To Help Someone With A Hearing Loss
Testimonials – Sharing success stories of people whose lives have improved from seeking help may persuade your reluctant dad or a male family member. We all have a person in our lives that we listen to. Your loved one may be comfortable saying no to you but has a lifelong friend that may be able to get through to him.
Stop Enabling – Every time you repeat yourself or turn up the TV, you worsen the problem. Doing these things by nature is helping but only in the short term. Over time, your loved one will experience more problems.
Lead By Example – Educate yourself on procedures and processes associated with improving overall healthcare. While you’re taking your dad to get a hearing assessment, why not get one yourself?
How To Prevent Hearing Loss In Old Age
Partnering with an audiologist with whom you trust is the best way to help a loved one with a hearing loss.
While we have the experience and knowledge to treat any level of hearing loss, prevention is still the most effective.
Through a meticulous process of best practices that has been defined over 20 years, we have built a renowned reputation that sees patients travel from afar and sees us recognized by peers throughout the US.
If you or a loved one is experiencing hearing or balance challenges and would like to work with leading doctors to diagnose the reasons and find a solution, then you’re in the right place.
Support your dad or loved one during their hearing assessment to show that you care. One thing we see loved ones do often at our clinic is schedule a hearing assessment too, to highlight their commitment and show how important healthy hearing is for them as well.
Your father has done so much for you, and we want to make sure every dad gets to enjoy their time with their family.
