Helping Patients Find Hearing Loss Support Groups

Even after explaining that the primary focus of a support group is to help the group cope with challenges, patients may still be resistant to the idea of attending one. But there is so much for hearing loss patients to gain by exploring social support circles. For example, listening to others with hearing loss talk about positive experiences with hearing aids will help sway patients who are hesitant to try them.

To further the conversation, there are some positive aspects of hearing loss support groups that you can highlight:

• New resources: Fostering new friendships in a support group will lead to exchanging tips and tricks on how to navigate daily life with hearing loss, including advice on assistive devices, communication techniques, and coping mechanisms.
• Improved communication skills: Active listening can increase with hearing loss, resulting in more empathy. As they learn new coping strategies in group, patients can look forward to how this translates in both personal and professional relationships.
• A sense of motivation and empowerment: Support group members often inspire one another and keep each other focused on overcoming their mutual challenges, leading to more confidence and a better daily outlook on life.
• Reduced stigma: When a patient knows they are not alone, the freedom from isolation is powerful. Openly discussing their hearing loss experience and even self-advocating at work, home, or in social situations becomes easier.

In addition to highlighting the benefits of hearing loss support groups, the most helpful thing you can do is direct the patient to a convenient one. The HLAA makes it easy to find groups with its online map.
“We know that when people connect with others who share the same issues and challenges, it can be very empowering,” says Barbara Kelley, HLAA’s Executive Director. “One of the most common things we hear when people attend an HLAA event for the first time is, ‘I’m not alone!’ Hearing loss can be isolating, so support and connection are often what inspires people to thrive.”

If you’re looking for even more ways to assist your patients, check out our guest blog post from an audiologist with clinical and educational experience: Eight Principles of Patient-Centered Care for Hearing Health