Many Plano couples blame their partners for “selective hearing,” especially when it comes time to take out the garbage or clean the bathroom. When the chore doesn’t get done, an argument ensues. “But, honey,” one person will invariably say. “It’s not my fault. I didn’t hear you!” We’re going to help you spot the signs and determine when your significant other is trying to avoid work…and when they honestly might not have heard you!
Hearing Loss Signs in Texas
Seven out of ten people think their partner has selective hearing, according to the results of a recent study out of Britain. In other words, they “choose” not to hear something their significant other has said—often in relation to a chore or other request. Men are the worst offenders, tuning out their partner on average just over seven times a week (388 times a year, to be precise). Women do this about six times a week, or a total of 339 times a year.
Hearing loss negatively affects relationships
This can lead to hurt feelings and arguments. But they aren’t ready to bust out the yellow pages (do people even still use those?) in search of a marriage counselor just yet; many of the respondents are quick to admit their partner might not be ignoring them. Over half suspect that a hearing problem might be to blame, and 40 percent go so far as to say they “know with certainty” that their partner is struggling to hear.
What are the risks of untreated hearing loss?
Hearing loss is a widespread concern in Texas and across the country. When untreated, it can result in physical, social and psychological health complications; the list of negative effects includes loneliness, depression, dementia and an increased risk of falling. The signs of hearing loss are often subtle; it takes an average of seven years from its onset before the typical patient seeks treatment. When a hearing impairment isn’t obvious, it’s easy to think selective hearing is at play.
Signs of Hearing Loss
Your Plano audiologist says to pay attention to possible signs of hearing loss. These include:
- Frequently say “huh?” or “what?”
- Ask others to speak more clearly, slowly and loudly
- Complain that others mumble when they speak
- Have trouble following conversations over noisy backgrounds
- Struggle with certain consonant sounds (e.g., “s” and “f”)
- Have difficulty with high-pitched sounds (doorbells, telephones)
- Turn up the volume on the television or radio
- Withdraw from social activities
Help yourself or your loved one
If you or your significant other is experiencing any of these (and the garage still hasn’t been cleaned, even after repeated requests!), contact an audiologist in Plano for a hearing exam. This is the best way to know for certain whether your partner is tuning out, or actually can’t hear you, and today’s varied hearing aid options can treat any degree of hearing loss.
