“Can’t you hear me? You need to get your ears checked.” Similar phrases are uttered multiple times daily in homes around the country. For many on the receiving end, it’s a sensitive subject. There’s anxiety tied to getting a hearing test and, if needed, hearing aids. The situation is frustrating for everyone involved, so how can we help our loved ones with untreated hearing issues to overcome that anxiety and improve their health and quality of life?
Derrick Woods of Holy City Hearing offered several talking points on the positives of hearing aids to share with and encourage someone to have their hearing tested.
First, after the age of 55, it is recommended to have your hearing checked annually, just as you would with your eyes or your yearly physical.
“80% of adults 55 to 74 that could benefit from a hearing aid don’t use them,” Woods said. “Some people are deterred by the price, and some devices are tricky to program, which requires some time commitment. We want hearing aids to be a benefit to you, which is why we offer what we call the hearing aid test drive.”
Because every person’s hearing is as unique as their fingerprint, Holy City Hearing’s test drive approach allows clients to try out their hearing aids in their daily lives to find the right hearing technology and style that works best for them. There is no down payment required and no obligation to buy.
But if the ability to test drive without commitment is not enough to get your loved one to get their hearing checked, Woods offered several other suggestions to encourage them.
“Hearing aids today aren’t the same as your grandma’s were – they are sleek and sophisticated. Even more, they have evolved to offer a lot of high-tech options,” he continued.
Some of the “cool factors” include perks like Bluetooth connection, more accurate fitness tracking, language translation and fall alerts. Problems with hearing aid programming? Not anymore, because hearing aids can now be programmed remotely.
If your loved one is apprehensive of cost, ask if they would be willing to pay a small amount daily for improved lifestyle and health.
“Look at the long-range value,” Woods said. “For example, a $4,600 pair of hearing aids worn for five years breaks down to about $2.50 per day.”
Other ways Woods mentioned are reminding them that getting a hearing aid can improve more than just their life – because their inability to hear affects others like family members and co-workers. Or tell them about some favorite celebrities who have hearing issues, such as Eric Clapton, Halle Berry, Whoopie Goldberg and Robert Redford. Offer to go with them or bargain with them: For example, if they get their hearing checked, you’ll do something you’ve been putting off as well.
“Ultimately, if they’re not ready to take action, the best thing you can do is to step back and just be there to support them,” Woods said.
For more information on Holy City Hearing, visit www.holycityhearing.com or call 843-388-4853.
By Anne Shuler Toole
