Hearing loss is a common part of aging. In fact, becoming older is the leading factor in most cases of hearing loss. The realization that our hearing is not quite as good as it once was can elicit a whole range of emotions. Sometimes, we find ourselves in a state of denial and refuse to accept the truth. It is possible that we will experience feelings of isolation and feel like the only people that are experiencing hearing loss. We may feel worried and upset if our partners, family and friends are having to continually speak louder than normal or repeat themselves. If you are having a conversation with a client, co-worker or boss at work and you miss important things, you may feel like you are putting your career at risk and it can be embarrassing.
Interestingly, it can be difficult to find support for hearing loss. Most primary care physicians do not offer guidance or advice on hearing loss and in many cases, friends, family and colleagues cannot relate. Support groups can be of immense help to people of all ages who are dealing with hearing loss, including teenagers, children and adults, as well as the parents and children of those with hearing loss.
What are Hearing Loss Support Groups Like?
Anyone can start a support group. It could be someone who has experienced hearing loss for themselves or have a friend or family member affected by hearing loss. There are some support groups for hearing loss which have been started by charitable organizations, advocacy groups or those considered to be authority figures in the field of hearing loss and hearing care.
Support groups for those who have hearing loss can take many different forms, including in-person get-togethers, online discussion forums and live chats. Those who are unable to find or attend local programs have the opportunity to find friendship, support and networking through online support groups.
Members of a support group are often people with hearing loss and go to regular meetings on a voluntary basis. The group may be led by a professional facilitator, such as a psychologist or an audiologist, or it could be led by one or more members of the group. Some organizations adopt an educational approach to support groups and hose events, speakers and panels as part of their agenda. Hearing aid technologies, cochlear implants and the financial options for hearing aids may be some of the things talked about in these groups.
As well as providing emotional support, some support groups teach coping mechanisms and provide a safe space for members to discuss both positive and negative experiences relating to hearing loss. Hearing aids are a new experience for many people, and they find that interacting with others who also use hearing aids is a helpful way to learn how to make the most out of their new devices. A lot of the people in the groups talk about how they can help their loved ones who have hearing loss. They may also provide courses in lip reading. This is a great skill for individuals who have profound hearing loss.
Also, support groups are able to point you in the right direction for the most appropriate type of audiologist for your unique circumstances. Ask the audiologist who takes care of your hearing whether there is a support group for people with hearing loss in your region that you can join, or search online for such a group. If there isn’t one available – why not look at starting one up of your own?
What are the Benefits of Attending a Hearing Loss Support Group?
Joining a support group for hearing loss can provide a sense of community, valuable emotional support and an opportunity to learn from others facing similar challenges. Additional benefits include:
- You can join an established community of people who know the challenges you are experiencing.
- You can get a sense of control, pride and belonging over your circumstances
- You can adapt much more quickly and develop coping strategies to help with hearing loss
- You can talk about your fears and feelings in a safe space without judgment
- You may be able to reduce anxiety and depression
- You can gain new information to help you to make informed hearing health decisions.
- You can learn about new hearing aid technology
- You can get practical support with using hearing aids
- You can find out more about audiologists in your area or field of hearing loss.
For more information on finding a hearing loss support group in your area or to speak to a professional audiologist about all things related to hearing loss, get in touch with Pittsburgh Ear LLC at 412-348-8016, 412-348-8195 or 412-348-8194 today.
