Helping Your Loved One During a Hearing Test

So you have been asked to go with someone close to you, either a friend or a family member, to their first hearing test with an audiologist. Most people have some anxiety before their first hearing test appointment. It can be confusing not knowing what to expect. It can also be unnerving not knowing what they are looking for or what kind of tests will be done. Being prepared is always beneficial and it is even more important when you are going with someone for emotional support and to be their extra set of ears. So what can you expect as the third party going to a hearing test and how can you prepare ahead of time for it?

• Be there for them. First and most importantly is to be there for your friend who has asked you to come with them. You need to be there for them emotionally and physically. Be their rock, their shoulder to cry on, and their extra set of ears.
• Communicate with your person prior the appointment. Talk with the loved one you are going to the appointment with ahead of time and see what they want to know, if they need anything and how you can help them during the appointment. Together write down your questions and concerns and be sure one of you asks the questions and brings up the concerns throughout the appointment. You may be the one because there is and will be a lot of information given to the patient throughout the appointment and it can be very overwhelming for them at times during the appointment.
• Ask questions and take notes. Be sure to write down your own questions as well prior to the appointment. These questions will also be beneficial to your person. Taking notes is also a great thing to do for your loved one considering the amount of information they will be and are given at the appointment. You taking notes will help them to better understand, absorb and remember all of the information that was given to them at the appointment.
• Be there for them. Lastly, it is crucial to reiterate the important part of being there for them. There will be need of follow-up support, as well after the appointment, and even possibly for future appointments. Be sure to constantly and consistently communicate with them prior, during and after the appointment to be sure their needs and wants are met, as well as your concerns for them during this process. Open communication helps all work through the process.

While hearing tests are completely non-invasive, pain-free exams, they can still cause anxiety when you don’t know what to expect. Accompanying a friend or loved one can help ease any anxiety or fears they might have, while also serving as a second pair of ears to take in any instructions or information.