Cathie Ramey
RedwoodAge.com

For many American boomers, the inability to be heard is getting in the way of marital bliss.

In a survey of 1,065 boomers married to people with hearing problems, nearly half indicate their marriage was affected. About seven in 10 said they feel annoyed when their spouse can't hear them; others feel ignored, sad or hurt.

"This study illustrates that hearing loss affects more than the person experiencing it," said Dr. Bary Williams, an audiologist. "Whether it is diagnosed hearing loss or a slight case of selective hearing, couples must work together and encourage healthy hearing habits."

Millions of Americans who would benefit from hearing aids can't afford them, and Medicare won't cover most costs associated with exams, fitting and the equipment itself. There is a bipartisan proposal in Congress to provide a tax break for those needing hearing aids. This study suggests another reason for that.

To compensate for being unheard, more than half of the spouses find themselves talking louder. Apparently that's effective because more than eight in 10 said it helps them be better understood.

Some of those surveyed attribute the problem to selective hearing with 45 percent indicating their spouses don't hear requests to do chores yet 77 percent believe their spouse can hear them fix a snack.

No matter what the reason behind the problem, of greater concern is the fact that few are paying much attention to their hearing decline.  

Problems Ignored
Nearly half of those asked believe denial is the number one reason spouses aren't dealing with their hearing loss. More than one in three of those who participated in the survey know their spouse has not had their hearing checked in more than three years and nearly one in four indicated their spouse has never had their hearing checked.  

Hearing plays a central role in maintaining a high quality of life and regular hearing screenings play an important part, said Williams. When asked, boomers want to spend their retirement years being an integral part of society by working, traveling, or volunteering and most plan to stay in their homes. Hearing loss, however,  could change that dream.

"If you can't hear the phone, doorbell, fire alarm, etc., it's going to be extremely difficult to maintain your independence," says Williams who was born with significant hearing loss.

For those who need a hearing aid, Williams says don't despair. Advances in technology combined with educational programs offer the best options for those worried about the stigma of hearing loss. 

"We want to educate people about hearing loss prevention, as well as provide solutions for others to manage their hearing health, so they can live active and enjoyable lifestyles," said Stacey Harbour of Energizer Battery, which conducted the survey  in conjunction with Better Speech and Hearing Month in May.