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Are you deaf or in denial?
1. Does your family constantly complain that you have the TV on too loud? Do you:
a. Say that having the sound up loud simply added to the enjoyment.
b. Accuse the TV of being on the blink
c. Say you’ll investigate equipment to boost the sound of the TV just for you without spoiling your family’s enjoyment
2. You see someone you know coming towards you on the same side of the street. Do you:
a. Say a cheery hello, but say, “can’t stop, busy day"
b. Say “very well thank you!” you’re sure they asked how you are….
c. Tell them about your hearing problems before stopping for a chat
3. In an otherwise empty restaurant, the music is interfering with your conversation with a friend. Do you:
a. Say to your friend, “just listen to that tune, it’s one of my favourites!”
b. Demand to speak to the manager and complain that the music is far too loud
c. Explain that you’re finding it hard to hear and ask the waiter politely if the music could be turned down
4. The shop assistant has told you the price, but you didn’t catch it. Do you:
a. Hold out a handful of money and ask if that covers it
b. Say brusquely, “speak up, you’re mumbling!”
c. Say, “I’m sorry, could you repeat that, I’m a bit deaf”
5. You’re trying to talk to someone in a crowded room. Do you:
a. Talk non-stop so the other person can’t get a word in edgeways
b. Say, “You should avoid parties, your voice is far too soft”
c. Ask your companion to repeat themselves when you can’t hear, or suggest you go to a quieter part of the room
Mostly As…
You’re a Concealer
You suspect you have a hearing loss, but you’re going to make sure no one else knows about it. And you certainly aren’t going to put one of those horrid little boxes on your ear. Life gets a bit tiring though and you know in your heart you miss out.
Your attempts to hide your hearing loss probably aren't fooling anyone! Consider discussing the situation with your friends and family and think about what steps you could take - a problem shared is a problem halved. Contact our free advisory service for practical information and support.
Mostly Bs
You’re a Denier
Hearing loss…you don’t have one. It’s people today, everyone mumbles. And they all have their music up too loud. And people in banks speak behind glass; so how can anyone be expected to hear?
Whilst we all cope with hearing loss in our own way, it might be better to face up to the problem rather than trying to deny it. This might help you feel happier. For pointers on coping with hearing loss, contact our free advisory service.
Mostly Cs…
You are the Winner
You recognise you have a hearing loss. If you haven’t been to your GP yet about getting a hearing aid, you’re just about to. Meanwhile, you grapple with the difficulties of being hard of hearing and don’t let it stop you leading a normal life.
A hearing aid may not restore your hearing completely, but with an aid there’ll be a lot of sounds you can hear again, and life will be a lot easier.
To find out about help available if you think you have a hearing loss, send off for a free booklet from Deafness Research UK.
Help for your hearing loss is available from our Information Service. Please visit the order form page to order a copy.
