When the Sound Fades: A Real Talk About Hearing Loss

Realising you might have a hearing impairment can be a bit of a shock. Often, it happens gradually, and before you know it, things that once seemed normal—like listening to someone talk or enjoying music—become harder to experience the way you used to. If you’ve noticed you’re struggling more with hearing lately, it’s not something to ignore. The first step is recognising the signs, and then, when you’re ready, accepting that you might need to make some changes.


You might find yourself having trouble hearing in noisy places, like when you’re in a crowded café or at a party. It can feel like everyone’s speaking at once, and you can’t pick up on the important bits. If you’re always asking people to repeat themselves, especially in quieter situations, it could be a sign that your hearing isn’t as sharp as it used to be. Similarly, if you’ve been cranking up the volume on the TV or radio and it seems like it’s louder than most people would tolerate, that’s something to pay attention to. Another sign could be if you feel like people are mumbling or not speaking clearly, even when you know they’re talking normally.


Tinnitus, or that persistent ringing or buzzing in your ears, is another red flag. It often goes hand in hand with hearing loss, and if it’s something you’ve been dealing with for a while, it’s a good idea to get it checked out. Some types of hearing loss also affect your ability to hear higher-pitched sounds, like the chirping of birds or the voice of a child.


Now, accepting that you might have hearing loss can be tough. It’s natural to feel a little bit of grief or frustration—it’s hard when something you’ve always relied on starts to change. But there’s no shame in recognising that you need some help. You wouldn’t hesitate to go to a doctor if you had a physical health issue, and the same should go for your hearing. Seeking help is the first step in preventing any further problems and finding ways to make life easier.


The good news is there are loads of options these days. Hearing aids, cochlear implants, and even some smartphone apps can help you navigate your day-to-day life more comfortably. Getting used to these changes might take time, but once you do, they can make a huge difference. The key is to remember that you’re not alone in this. Hearing loss is actually really common, and there are plenty of people out there who understand exactly what you’re going through. Support groups, both online and in person, can be a great way to connect with others and share tips.
Talking about it with the people around you is also important. Let your friends, family, and colleagues know what works best for you. Maybe they need to face you when they talk or keep background noise down a bit. Simple things like that can make socialising a lot easier.


And remember, it’s okay to take your time with this. Coming to terms with a change like hearing loss doesn’t happen overnight. Give yourself grace as you adjust, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.


If you’re in Leicestershire, there are great resources like the Leslie Edwards Trust, which offers lipreading classes and communication skills workshops. They can help you stay connected with your community and make the most of your hearing, no matter what stage you're at.


At the end of the day, recognising that your hearing might be changing is the first step toward making it better. There’s no need to struggle alone—help is available, and there are plenty of ways to stay in tune with the world around you.