Having a family member begin to lose his or her hearing can pose a challenge to your relationship, as the person might become withdrawn or even irritable because of the problem. Although getting hearing aids can drastically improve the person's quality of life, many people feel slightly resistant to scheduling an appointment for a hearing test to determine if hearing aids can help them. If you're noticing that the person's hearing isn't up to par, you can provide some gentle coaxing to encourage the family member to visit a hearing specialist and get tested. Here are three steps to help you accomplish this goal.

Take Some Notes

Before you think about discussing the person's struggle to hear, take some time to observe the person's interactions and make some simple notes that can help you illustrate your concern when you speak to the person later on. Specific examples provide credibility and are less likely to feel accusatory. Instead of saying something general such as the person never hears what you're saying, you can bring up some times at which the person's hearing situation impacted the family. For example, you could report that when the family member was babysitting a grandchild and didn't hear a grandchild crying, the grandchild didn't get his diaper changed in time.

Find The Right Time To Talk

Many people can feel defensive about their hearing difficulties, so it's important to find the right time to bring up the issue. You don't have to schedule a formal intervention-style meeting, but you should hold this discussion at a calm, quiet time. Say that you'd like to talk to the family member about an issue that you've noticed and gently share your message. Whether you choose to have this talk alone with your family member or favor gathering a few others, the key is to express your desire to help the person and convey the sentiment that seeking medical care can help restore the person's quality of life.

Offer Your Assistance

Instead of telling the person to book a hearing test, offer to make the booking for him or her and provide transportation on the day in question. An act of solidarity is to book your own hearing test so you can go through the process together. Send a clear message that you're in this situation with your family member and want to provide support. Part of dealing with a health issue is often a fear of going through it alone and your assistance can help the person immeasurably. Contact a company like Audiology Consultants, P.C. for more information.