I am partially blind and deaf. My loss of vision caused by glaucoma is unusual. My loss of hearing is not. According the American Academy of Family Physicians, “A 25 decibel hearing loss affects about 37% of adults 61 to 70 years of age, 60% of adults 71 to 80 years of age, and more than 80% of adults over 85.” I am presently 83.
I am more blind than deaf. My hearing loss is classified as moderate, but is the more difficult to live with. That is because of people.
People are generally considerate of those who cannot see. When after some of the five surgeries on my right eye I had to wear an eye patch, people treated me with courtesy and even in busy airports gave me space. The almost instinctive reaction to those who have trouble hearing is frustration, irritation and sometimes anger, as if the one who cannot hear is doing so deliberately.
For myself I have worn eyeglasses since I was a child. I have worn hearing aids since my early seventies. My vision seems to be stable. My hearing will only get worse.
So I suggest you try to be tolerant of the hard of hearing. It will not be easy.
You might do so because if you live long enough you are likely to become one of them. Or you might do so just because it is kind.
2 comments:
Webb - At age 67, I have mild hearing loss. I wear hearing aids and in most environments they do help. The worst environment is a loud restaurant, especially one with tile or cement floors or high ceilings, where hearing can be difficult, especially the soft, high frequency voices of many women. I do not wear them when I am sailing. I may be missing out on the high frequency sounds of some birds or sea life.
I feel blessed to be alive and have a wonderful life and live with the few minor inconveniences.
Scott
S/V "Free Spirit"
1975 Ranger 23
Los Angeles
When my father lost much of his hearing in his early 80s he either bought or made a lapel button that said "Hard of hearing. Please speak up!".
Hugh
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