How to Support Someone with Hearing Loss

When someone close to you starts to lose their hearing, it can affect far more than just conversations. Everyday routines, social moments and the activities they enjoy can start to feel harder or less comfortable. It can change how they connect with others, how safe they feel at home and even how confident they are in day-to-day life.

As a family member, friend or carer, your support can make a big difference. With patience and a few small changes, you can help them stay involved, independent and heard.

Start with understanding

Hearing loss is common, especially as people get older. But it often happens so gradually that the person affected doesn't notice it at first - or may feel embarrassed to talk about it. 

They might seem to 'ignore' you or struggle to follow conversations, but it's rarely about not paying attention. They simply can't hear as clearly as before, especially if there's background noise.

For many people, this can spill into other parts of life. They may avoid group situations because it's harder to keep up, feel less confident joining in family chats or start stepping back from hobbies they once enjoyed because communication feels more tiring.

Showing empathy and understanding goes a long way. Try to see things from their perspective and reassure them that help is available.

Create better communication moments

Good communication can ease frustration for both of you. Below are recommended steps to follow to make conversations easier:

• Get their attention first. Say their name or gently touch their arm before you start speaking.
• Face them when you talk. Seeing your mouth helps them follow what you're saying.
• Speak clearly and naturally. Louder doesn't always mean clearer - it's better to slow down slightly and keep your tone even.
• Keep background noise low. Turn off the TV or move away from noisy areas when talking.
• Use plain language. Rephrase if they miss something rather than repeating the same words.
• Check if they've understood. Ask questions or repeat key details to make sure nothing important gets lost.

Making these changes doesn't just improve one-to-one conversations - it helps them feel included in everyday life, whether they're chatting over dinner, joining a group or speaking with healthcare professionals. These small adjustments can turn stressful conversations into confident, comfortable exchanges. 

Support their social and daily activities

Hearing loss doesn't just affect communication - it can influence how someone takes part in their usual routines and the things they enjoy.

You can help by:

• Making social situations easier. Choose quieter cafes, sit in well-lit areas so they can see faces clearly and keep group sizes small where possible.
• Creating calm spaces at home. Reducing background noise makes everything from watching TV together to sharing a cup of tea more relaxing.
• Helping them stay connected. Encourage time with friends, hobbies they enjoy or family catch-ups.
• Supporting independence. Clear communication helps with everyday tasks such as shopping, managing appointments or speaking to delivery drivers or neighbours. 

These small actions help them stay active, confident and part of the world around them. 

Encourage hearing checks and support

If your loved one is struggling, the kindest thing you can do is encourage them to have their hearing tested. Explain that it's quick, painless and can make a huge difference to their quality of life.

Let them know they don't have to face it alone - you can help with booking appointments or be there during their test if that makes them feel more comfortable. 

If getting to a clinic is difficult, our specialists can come to them for a free home hearing test.

Be patient and positive

Adjusting to hearing loss takes time. Even with hearing aids, it can take a while to get used to new sounds. Celebrate progress, however small, and remind them that better hearing means a better connection to the world around them.

Your encouragement can help them stay confident, social and independent.