Talking to a loved one about their hearing loss (without the awkwardness)

Having a hearing loss is extremely common, however it’s still one of the most under-discussed health concerns. For many people, it develops gradually over time, making it difficult to recognise or even easy to ignore. As a result, loved ones are often the first to notice the signs. But bringing it up with them can feel uncomfortable. The good news is with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be. Conversations about hearing can be supportive and respectful, focusing on maintaining connection can minimise awkwardness.

Why This Conversation Matters: When they don’t realise (or aren’t ready to admit) they have hearing loss

It’s common for people to be unaware of their hearing changes. Many people quietly adapt without noticing such as lip-reading subconsciously, or they may attribute their difficulties to background noise, others’ mumbling, or simply “getting older”.

Untreated hearing loss doesn’t just affect one’s hearing—it can impact relationships, confidence, and overall health and wellbeing. People may begin to withdraw from social situations, misunderstand conversations, or feel frustrated more often.

How to Start the Conversation

Here are some tips to navigate this conversation effectively with empathy and care:

Choose the right moment in a private quiet setting: Pick a comfortable, relaxed environment, such as at home, where there are minimal distractions. Avoid raising the topic during a noisy gathering when they are stressed, or immediately after a frustrating moment when communication has already broken down, as this can lead to defensiveness.

Lead with care, not criticism: It is vital to avoid blame or judgment. Instead of pointing out what they’re doing “wrong,” focus on your shared experiences and concern.

Use “I” statements: Focus on your observations to reduce chances of sounding critical or confrontation. For example, try saying, “I’ve noticed that you have trouble hearing me on the phone” rather than “You can’t hear me on the phone”.

Be specific, but gentle: Rather than telling them “You’re always missing things”, mention an everyday experience without overwhelming them. For instance, “It seemed like dinner the other night was a bit tricky to follow with everyone talking” or “You seem to be turning the TV up louder than you used to”.

Normalise the idea of checking hearing: Frame it as a routine health check, not a serious problem.

“It might be worth getting your ears checked for your hearing, just like we do with our eyes for our vision. It could be nothing, but it might make things easier if you had it checked.”

When hearing loss starts affecting behaviour (dominating or withdrawing)

As hearing loss progresses and communication becomes more effortful, people naturally adapt in ways that can affect relationships—sometimes without realising it. Two common patterns tend to arise, and both can be misunderstood if you don’t realise what’s going on under the surface.

1. Dominating conversations
Some people interrupt more, steer conversation topics, or talk at length. This can come across as overbearing—but often it’s a way to stay in control and avoid confusion or missing information.

2. Withdrawing socially
Some people speak less, avoid group settings, or seem disengaged. This is often about fatigue from listening effort or fear of getting things wrong—not lack of interest.

How to respond supportively

Start by recognising that these behaviours are typically coping mechanisms—not personality changes.

For dominating behaviour, avoid calling out the behaviour publicly (“You’re interrupting a lot”) and try gently create a space for others (“I’d love to hear what everyone thinks one at a time”). The goal is not to correct them, but to support smoother communication.

For withdrawing behaviour, check in with them privately to see if they are having difficulty hearing, offer alternatives by suggesting quieter venues to catch up and make it clear their presence matters, even if communication isn’t perfect.

At this stage, it’s helpful to revisit the idea of a professional hearing check—this time linking it to their changed behaviour, and offer to go along with them for support. Knowing they’re not alone can make a big difference.

After they’ve taken action—adjusting to hearing aids and beyond

Accepting hearing loss and starting to use hearing aids is a significant step. But the journey doesn’t end there, the next stage is an adjustment for everyone involved. It regularly comes with mixed emotions: relief, uncertainty, even self-consciousness. Your role here is to help make it feel normal.

How you can help

1. Normalise the experience and keep your reactions natural
Hearing aids are tools—just like glasses. The more your loved one is treated as normal, the more comfortable they will feel. How you respond shapes how they feel.

• Avoid making it a big moment and drawing unnecessary attention
• Be positive without being over-the-top
• Focus on outcomes, not the device: easier conversations, more clarity, less strain

Follow their lead – some people are open about it, others more private. Match their level of comfort.

2. Expect an adjustment period
Hearing aids are an aid, they don’t restore you hearing to “perfect” hearing. It takes time to get used to hearing differently as sounds may feel sharper, unfamiliar or even overwhelming at first. Be patient by giving them time to adapt and by understanding if some things still need repeating.

3. Build better communication habits together
Even with hearing aids, good communication is still a shared responsibility.

• Keep communication clear (face-to-face, moderate pace, not overly loud)
• Get attention before speaking e.g. say their name
• Reduce competing background noise where possible e.g. turn off TV
• Avoid speaking from another room
• Use visual cues like facial expressions and gestures

These small changes reduce effort on both sides.

4. Keep them socially connected
The emotional side of hearing loss matters just as much as the practical side.
Keep attending the activities you’ve always enjoyed together. Stay socially connected but be mindful of environments that still may be challenging. Laugh off miscommunications when they happen but possibly suggest quieter venues or plan smaller group catch-ups. Remember to check in after social events to see what worked, what didn’t and how they’re feeling overall.

It’s about connection

Talking to a loved one about their hearing doesn’t have to be awkward. Awkwardness usually comes from treating hearing loss as a flaw that needs to be fixed. When you treat it as a normal part of health—and approach conversations with empathy, patience and respect—it becomes much easier to talk about.

You don’t need perfect words or the perfect moment. You just need the willingness to start a conversation with care, not criticism. When people feel supported rather than judged, they’re far more likely to take the next step.

At the heart of it, this conversation is about preserving connection—helping your loved one stay engaged in the moments and relationships that matter most.

Call 03 9800 5697 or contact Knox Audiology online to book a comprehensive hearing assessment.