As an audiologist and someone who has hearing loss, I’ve seen how even a little bit of hearing difficulty can affect a relationship. It can start with small things, such as missing jokes or quick comments. Common adjustments that happen gradually as we get older are watching TV in different rooms and socializing less and for shorter periods. The couple makes these adjustments without explicitly discussing them or acknowledging that hearing loss even exists. Before you know it, it’s causing a breakdown in communication.

So what can you do? Every person over 55 should have a hearing test, seek treatment as early as possible, and couples can learn about communication strategies and the impact of hearing loss from a hearing care professional. Communication is a two-way street: both parties will need to make changes. Hearing care professionals can help.