Hearing loss in a relationship When one of the partners of a relationship acquires a hearing loss, it affects the relationship in various ways. The hearing loss changes the way in which the partners communicate and may also have consequences for their social life together. Here you can read about some of the problems that may arise in such a relationship.

Typical problems

The person with hearing loss will often feel that he or she has to be continuously attentive to localise speech and determine when a new conversation starts. The partner with normal hearing may find it tiring having to catch the attention of the other person before initiating conversation.

Hearing loss may impede impulsiveness and make it difficult to make snappy and fun comments. In such situations, the hearing impaired person may feel isolated whereas the partner with normal hearing may feel guilty for not being more helpful in the communication.

Too many messages and too much speech without intervals can make it difficult for the person with hearing loss to catch the essence of the message. This can lead to misunderstandings and annoyance in both partners.

Telephone conversations often have to be repeated by the person with normal hearing. Giving an account of a telephone conversation is not always a lot of fun – and only getting second-hand versions of telephone conversations – especially if they are important – is no fun either.

Both parties are responsible

Hearing loss in a relationship requires that both partners make an effort to over-come challenges in the best possible way. If both partners are aware of their responsibility, many misunderstandings can be avoided. As communication is so important, it is a good idea to find out how to communicate successfully with each other.

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Hearing tactics for people with normal hearing

Hearing tactics for people with hearing loss