Being diagnosed with hearing loss can sometimes come with a lot of shock or uncertainty. Having support when this happens can help you navigate these feelings better. Below we review other reasons why you should bring a partner or relative to your audiology appointment.
They Can Relay Information to Your Audiologist
You are not the only one affected by your hearing loss—your loved ones are too. They may be able to provide valuable insight about your hearing loss that you alone wouldn’t be able to. For example, they could tell your audiologist that when you’re watching TV, you turn up the volume very loud, or that they have to repeat themselves more often during certain activities, like dinner dates at Ocean Grill on Beachland Boulevard.
They Can Relay Information to You
On the flip side, your loved ones know you and your communication needs best, and they can help your audiologist communicate information to you. Although audiologists are not only hearing but also communication experts, having your loved one reiterate certain information may help you retain it better. In addition, they can remind you of what your audiologist told you once you get home.
They Can Provide Moral Support
As stated above, hearing the news you have hearing loss and that you need hearing aids can feel like a life-altering change. Your loved ones can provide moral support as you navigate this new life journey.
Who You Should Bring
The research on this topic indicates that who you bring to your appointment matters.
According to one 2022 study, “In addition to replicating previous findings which showed that significant-other attendance at audiology appointments was positively associated with hearing aid adoption, results from the current paper also revealed that the odds of hearing aid adoption were greater if the [significant other] was of a stronger relationship tie (i.e., partners, parents, children, and siblings) and not a weaker relationship tie (i.e., friends, carers).”
The study’s authors go on to say, “These findings suggest that an extension of the non-audiological factor of significant-other attendance during the hearing rehabilitation process should be considered: the relationship type patients have with their significant others.”
It’s worth noting, however, any loved one who is available to come with you is a better option than attending by yourself.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Aaron's Hearing Aid & Audiology Center today.