Advice · Family
Worried a parent cannot hear? A practical guide for sons and daughters
Age-related hearing loss is common and develops slowly, so the person affected is often the last to notice. Family members usually spot it first. This guide covers the signs, how to raise the subject and what a hearing test involves.
The signs you may already be seeing
Hearing loss usually shows in small, repeated things rather than one moment. The television or radio is turned up louder than others find comfortable. Phone calls become harder, especially on mobiles. In busy places, such as a café or a family kitchen, your parent struggles to follow conversation and goes quiet.
Common phrases include “stop mumbling” and “it’s a bad line”. To the person with hearing loss, it seems that speech has become less clear. See 5 signs you might have hearing loss for a fuller checklist.
Why it matters
Untreated hearing loss can be isolating. People who cannot follow conversation often stop joining in, which can lead to low mood and loneliness. Research, including the 2020 Lancet Commission on dementia, identifies hearing loss as a potentially modifiable risk factor for dementia.
How to raise it
- Choose a calm, private moment rather than a noisy family meal
- Talk about specific moments, such as a conversation they missed, rather than labels
- Focus on connection: “I miss our proper chats”
- Offer to go with them to the appointment
It may take more than one conversation. Many people agree once a hearing test feels like a simple check rather than a verdict.
What happens at a hearing test
A hearing test at The Chepstow Hearing Clinic is free, with no obligation. It takes 60 to 90 minutes. The clinician discusses what your parent has noticed, examines the ears (sometimes the only issue is wax, which can often be removed the same day) and carries out listening tests in a quiet room. The results are explained in plain terms.
You can book on their behalf
Family members can call the clinic on 01291 332211 to ask questions and arrange an appointment. Home visits are available for people who find travel difficult, so the test can take place at home. The clinic sees families from Chepstow, Monmouthshire, Newport, Caldicot and the Forest of Dean.
Questions people ask
Common questions
How do I know if my elderly parent has hearing loss?
Look for everyday patterns: the television getting louder, difficulty on the phone, going quiet in noisy rooms and asking people to repeat themselves. A free hearing test gives a clear answer.
My parent will not admit to hearing loss. What can I do?
Suggest a check rather than a diagnosis. Present it as a quick, free hearing check, offer to go with them, and focus on the conversations you are missing.
Will my parent be pressured to buy hearing aids?
No. The test is free with no obligation. Hearing aids are only discussed if they would help and your parent wants to talk about them.
Can the hearing test be done at home?
Yes. Home visits are available across the local area for people who are housebound or find the journey difficult.
Worried about a parent’s hearing?
Book a free hearing test or ask about a home visit. You can book on their behalf.