How Friends and Family Can Support Someone With Hearing Loss

Hearing loss doesn’t just affect the person who has it — it affects their family, friends, and relationships too. Communication is how we connect, and when it becomes harder, frustration, misunderstandings, and even withdrawal can creep in. The good news is that with the right support, people with hearing loss can continue to live full, confident, and connected lives.

But it’s important to remember: every journey with hearing aids and hearing rehabilitation is unique. The outcome depends on a few key factors, including:

• How long someone has had hearing loss – The brain adapts over time. If hearing loss has been present for many years, the brain may need more time and practice to relearn how to interpret sounds.

• Whether auditory deprivation has occurred – If parts of the auditory system haven’t been stimulated for a long time, it can take longer to adjust, and in some cases, certain sounds may never be fully restored.

• The level of hearing loss – Hearing aids can only amplify and support the hearing that’s still there. They don’t “cure” hearing loss but instead maximise the hearing that remains.

With this in mind, here are some meaningful ways friends and family can support a loved one with hearing loss:

1. Be Patient With the Process

Getting used to hearing aids takes time. Sounds may feel overwhelming or unusual at first, and it can take weeks or even months for the brain to adjust. Offer reassurance, celebrate small wins, and understand that progress may be gradual.

2. Create Communication-Friendly Environments

• Face your loved one when speaking — lip cues help.

• Reduce background noise where possible (turn down the TV or step away from a noisy street).

• Speak clearly, at a natural pace — shouting or over-enunciating can distort speech.

3. Encourage Consistent Hearing Aid Use

Wearing hearing aids regularly helps the brain re-adapt to sound. Skipping days or “saving them for special occasions” only slows progress. A supportive nudge to wear them daily can make all the difference.

4. Manage Expectations Together

It’s important to remember that:

• Hearing aids don’t restore “perfect” hearing.

• They don’t eliminate all background noise.

• They do help make speech and sounds clearer, especially in everyday situations.

When friends and family understand this, there’s less frustration and more encouragement.

5. Stay Positive and Inclusive

Isolation is a common side effect of hearing loss. Keep involving your loved one in conversations, even if it takes a little more effort. Your patience, humour, and positivity can help them stay engaged and confident.

Final Thoughts

Supporting someone with hearing loss isn’t just about the technology — it’s about understanding, patience, and teamwork. With the right approach, hearing aids can open the door to a richer, more connected life.