Question for you folks out there, who have been dealing with hearing loss for a loooong time…

What advice would you offer to a person who lost hearing ‘overnight,’ so to speak… it could be due to a variety of things, but: from one day being a part of the hearing world, to suddenly not be able to understand anything that is heard… (even if it is loud enough)

Thanks for any suggestions you have to offer.... 

*Auricle

 [ send green star]

I have long since accepted my deafness and I do know this, I will not be listening to loud music because it caused further hearing loss.

The only music I now listen to is via this computer and the speakers.  The speakers is on low and with help of the hearing aids, I can hear the music.

I played a song today via the computer and I loved listening to it.  It truly was bliss when I listened.

Some people chose to listen to a very loud music and then become shocked when they lose their hearing.  I'm sorry but they should not put their hearing on risk because, 'what you have, you can lose it'.

 [ send green star]

Kalaya, you are so smart to protect your hearing…  Music is a beautiful thing, as long as it, too, is taken in moderation.  Just like with drugs or alcohol, an overdose of noise has a ‘toxic’ effect on our hearing system!  I closed my eyes and listened to some music after reading your post, and it is bliss to hear it and experience it…  As far as the music abusers…  They will be sorry in a few years, you are right.  I also feel for the guys that ride around on those mowers all day, every day – without hearing protection…  I have considered carrying a big box of earplugs in my car so that I can hop out and “make a difference” when I see a person mowing as such…  I even saw someone using a jackhammer without hearing protection… (this is the sad part) right across the street from a speech and hearing center.  Little earplugs wouldn’t be enough for the amount of noise he was generating… I wonder how he is doing now…… we probably all know the answer to that… he should join our group! (whoever he was).

Carol, your words are wise.  What a great way to deflect the focus from the ‘problem’ to other, perhaps more productive things, such as the lipreading tips, classes, etc., and try to provide the person with a comfortable support network, especially while they are going through this difficult transition period.  The box of chocolates is an awesome idea!  I love it!  It shows the person in another way that “hey, I care,” and hopefully they will feel extra special with your efforts.  Your idea of participating in activities for which hearing is not necessary is awesome too… Going to an art museum, or a modern dance would be really neat ways of renewing a friendship that has been startled by such a sudden change.  You sparked an idea there for me, have you heard of the National Theatre of the Deaf?  You can visit their website at http://www.ntd.org/ and check out the company.  It is theatre for all people, regardless of hearing status.  It looks like they even have been to Sesame Street to hang out!  All sudden health changes can be devastating, it sounds like you know the experience all too well.  Hope that you are okay… Let’s all remember to “click to donate” for breast cancer, in honor of Carol today…. Thanks!!!!

*Auricle

 [ send green star]

Valerie, your words are wise, and probably a great heads-up for the family members who are accompanying the trip through hearing loss...  Thanks for posting your thoughts here, and on the relationship thread...  We appreciate every word!

 [ send green star]

     Thank you for sharing with us.

     Glad to see  you here and welcome.

 [ send green star]