The Hear the World Initiative by Phonak blogged yesterday about a new study they conducted looking at the prejudices of hearing aids on getting to know someone new while dating.
Research has shown that 1 in 3 Americans with hearing loss – who have not yet opted for hearing instruments – choose to hold off due to the perceived difficulty of getting to know someone new, and the image that hearing instruments might give off, however results show that people with hearing instruments do not have any greater difficulties than those with normal hearing meeting new people and sustaining meaningful relationships.
The research went straight to the source, talking to the partners in the relationship. Their opinion was clear: 41% of those respondents whose partner or spouse is affected by hearing loss, but does not yet wear a hearing aid would be glad if their partner would get one. Just under one in five even believe that getting a hearing aid would improve their relationship. And for those whose partner or spouse has already opted for a hearing aid the data was even more clear! 81% of the respondents confirmed, “I am glad that my partner wears a hearing aid.” 40% report that they received more attention from their partner since he or she has had a hearing aid. And 38% think that they now have a better relationship.
So this Valentine’s day do something extra special for your loved one and consider creating clearer communication with hearing instruments!