What to Do If You Think You Have Hearing Loss (or If Your Spouse Thinks You Do)

Hearing loss often creeps up gradually, which means you may not notice the changes right away. 

In fact, it’s often a partner, family member, or friend who first points out that you’re missing parts of conversations or turning up the TV a little too high.

 If you’ve started to wonder whether your hearing isn’t what it used to be—or your spouse has gently suggested the same—here’s what to do next.

Recognise the Signs

Common early signs of hearing loss include:

Struggling to follow conversations in busy places

Asking people to repeat themselves often

Feeling that others are mumbling

Turning the TV or radio up louder than those around you prefer

Finding phone calls more difficult to follow than before

If these sound familiar, it’s worth taking them seriously.

Talk About It Openly

If your spouse or family member has raised concerns, it can feel frustrating or even embarrassing. But remember, their perspective is valuable—they may be noticing things you don’t. 

Have an honest conversation without defensiveness. Hearing difficulties don’t just affect you; they affect those around you too.

Get a Hearing Check

The simplest way forward is to have your hearing tested. In the UK, you can:

See your GP – they may refer you for a hearing test with the NHS.

Book directly with an audiologist – many high street opticians and hearing centres offer free hearing checks.

Use online screening tools – these can give a rough indication, but they’re not a substitute for a professional test.

Don’t Delay

Hearing loss isn’t just about missing a few words. Left untreated, it can affect relationships, social confidence, and even mental health. 

The sooner you take action, the better your quality of life will be. Modern hearing aids are discreet, comfortable, and far more advanced than many people imagine.

Support Each Other

If it’s your spouse who’s struggling with hearing, patience and encouragement go a long way. Avoid nagging or shouting—stay calm, listen to their concerns, and offer to go with them to an appointment. Tackling the issue together can make the process less daunting.

The Bottom Line

Hearing changes are a natural part of life for many of us. Ignoring the signs won’t make them go away, but taking the first step towards a hearing test can open the door to clearer conversations and better connections.

If you think your hearing—or your partner’s—has declined, make that appointment today. It could transform not just your hearing, but your everyday life.

I have to admit that it took me a while to acknowledge that I was suffering from a mild hearing loss. The result of several years working as a technician in a foundry when I was very young. Even though I always wore hearing protectors.