How to Convince Mom to Get a Hearing Test

By Lori LaPorte | August 21, 2018 |

There are many things that can cause older adults to gradually lose their hearing. Because the loss happens slowly over time, they may not even realize it’s happening. Instead, those around them might notice it first. Family members may be annoyed by how loud the person turns up the television or radio. Or, they may have to repeat themselves frequently when speaking to the older adult. The older adult may also misunderstand conversations or complain that others are mumbling. Unfortunately, talking to someone about hearing loss and the need for a hearing test can be a tense situation. They may not take your suggestion that they are losing their hearing very well. If you’re facing a tough talk about hearing loss, below are some tips that may help you approach the topic.

Elderly Care in Laguna Hills CA: How to Convince Mom to Get a Hearing Test

Choose the Right Time.

Don’t approach the subject of hearing loss when the situation is already stressful. If your parent is already upset about something else, adding hearing loss on top of it isn’t likely to result in a productive conversation. Instead, wait until they’re relaxed and in a positive frame of mind.

Empathize with Their Loss.

Losing their hearing may not be your parent’s only concern. They may also worry about the loss of independence that can come with aging. Hearing loss can be a harbinger of more losses to come. Express that you understand and care about their feelings. Explain that getting a hearing aid could give them more independence than they have now since they won’t have to rely on other people to repeat parts of a conversation.

Talk About Safety.

Tell your parent that you’re concerned about their safety. They may be unable to hear the smoke alarm. They may not hear a car coming when they are out walking or a car horn when they’re driving. A hearing aid will allow them to be more aware of their surroundings.

Talk About the Ways Their Inability to Hear Affects You.

According to a survey conducted by AARP, 70 percent of older adults would get help if they knew their inability to hear was affecting their family members and friends. So, tell your parent how their hearing loss makes life more difficult for you. Tell them if the loud television gives you a headache, or if you worry about their safety, or if you sometimes find it frustrating to have a conversation with them.

When your parent decides it is time to go for a hearing test, an elderly care provider can drive them to the appointment. If they get a hearing aid, elderly care can assist with taking care of the device since aged fingers might have trouble handling the tiny hearing aid and its buttons. Elderly care providers can also remind your parent to use their hearing aid during the early days when it’s not yet a habit.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering elderly care in Laguna Hills, CA, please contact the caring staff at Easy Living Home Care today. Providing Non-Medical Home Care Services in Orange County, CA since 2009. Call for Assistance: (949) 282-5017 or (949) 842-6831

Sources

https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2014/help-a-loved-one-with-hearing-loss.html?intcmp=AE-HEALTH-HEARING-POPULAR-SPOT2

https://www.healthyhearing.com/report/33206-How-to-tell-your-parents-they-need-hearing-aids

https://www.guideposts.org/friends-and-family/caregiving/aging-parents/4-ways-to-talk-to-aging-parents-about-hearing-loss

Author
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Lori LaPorte

Founder/Owner at Easy Living Home Care

Easy Living Home Care owner and administrator, Lori LaPorte, has over forty years of extensive experience caring for the elderly community. Ms. LaPorte graduated from Western Michigan University with a Bachelors Degree in Special Education, Elementary Education and Health.

At a very young age it was always Ms. LaPorte’s passion to work with the elderly. She was a caregiver at a nursing home in high school and college and volunteered in senior centers and senior events held by the city in which she grew up. After graduation, Ms. LaPorte became a special education teacher for sixteen years.

She put her teaching career on the sidelines to raise two wonderful children, during which her passion for the elderly inspired her to start Easy Living Home Care in 2009. Ms. Laporte wanted to help people, especially seniors, find competent, qualified, and caring in-home care at reasonable rates.

Ms LaPorte takes an active role in conducting and managing all operations of her business. She is patient, compassionate and listens. Ms. Laporte is always available to her clients and staff.

In her spare time, Lori volunteers for the American Red Cross and Leashes of Love canine rescue organization.