Communication is the bedrock of a strong, healthy relationship. If you’re among the more than 10% of people in the United States with hearing loss, you may have dealt with difficult communication in the past. This Valentine’s Day, take a look at our list of tips to establish healthy communication with your significant other.
1. Look at Each Other
We rely on more than just speech to understand each other. Things like lip movements and body language can help you clarify points your ears didn’t hear or your mind didn’t process. When you’re talking with your partner, make sure you face each other to ensure the best understanding. Ask your partner to tap you on the shoulder to get your attention before speaking, and avoid speaking to each other from different rooms whenever possible.
2. Talk in Quiet Rooms
Background noise can make speech comprehension more challenging. Lower the volume in your environment whenever you’re having a meaningful conversation. Turning off the TV or lowering the radio volume are great ways to make your environment more hearing-loss-friendly.
If you’re going out for a Valentine’s Day dinner, try booking a quieter restaurant in Hampton or going for an earlier lunch or dinner.
3. Say When You Miss Something
Misunderstanding or not hearing your partner entirely isn’t something to hide. If you don’t hear them clearly, ask your partner to repeat or rephrase themselves. They’ll be happy to know you care enough to double-check.
4. Take Breaks
If you start to feel worn out during a conversation with your partner, it’s okay to ask for a pause. The mental fatigue you feel on communication-heavy days is called auditory fatigue—a common difficulty for people with hearing loss. Giving your brain a little break can make it much easier to connect and communicate.
5. Practice Patience
Communication is a two-way street, and patience plays a huge role. You may feel frustrated when you can’t understand your partner, while they may feel frustrated when they don’t feel heard. Making space for each other’s needs and taking the time to clarify when needed can help keep conversations supportive and connected.
Practicing effective communication and relying on your hearing aids will help you and your partner bond this Valentine’s Day. For more information on managing hearing loss, contact Hampton Roads ENT ~ Allergy today.