Partners viewpoint research

Effects of hearing loss on hearing partners

“Have they actually done any research because that bears no relationship to my experience?” Sound familiar?

I once read a report which chagrined me so much that I immediately sat down and dashed off an irate letter pointing out the inaccuracies and errors. I didn’t post that letter, because I felt the researchers wouldn’t be interested in my opinions, the report was already in print and I’d just seem a crank.

I should have though because without taking an interest I can’t complain about outcomes. As I read on Steve Earle’s 1998 album cover for ‘Copperhead Road’ – If you don’t vote, don’t complain (or words to that effect).

Well, hearing partners, here’s an opportunity to get involved at the research phase and actually help make a difference for others. Research is being carried out which will increase awareness and understanding for partners of deaf and deafened folk which will enable services providing care to be more responsive from the onset of hearing loss in a family group – I apologise to those living alone, please don’t feel that  you’re being forgotten, it’s just this is aimed at couples and families.

This will have a positive impact on many lives and if you’re already a hearing partner then you know just how vital it is that real-life experiences are recorded rather than conjecture. After all, having lived through difficulties you not only know what problems and trip-ups there can be in everyday life, you’ve got first hand advice about what can – and needs – to be done to help.

The research is voluntary, completely confidential, and will make a difference. I’m meeting the researcher in a couple of weeks, not because I’ve got bright ideas or superb experiences to share, but because it’s better to help than moan and (without trying to adopt an Oscar winning actor’s humbleness) if any of the difficulties we’ve experienced can help then the problem wasn’t as negative as it seemed.

And getting to Eastbourne needn’t be expensive; I’m going by train (something I’d never otherwise consider) from Southampton for the bargain cost of £15 return on a cheap day return – couldn’t drive there for that, couldn’t even ride my bike for that – although I must admit it’s thirstier than most cars, but a lot more fun. And I must be getting soft, the train will be warmer.

Please make contact through Hearing Link at enquiries@hearinglink.org and put ‘Partners Research – Dick Hill’ in the subject box.

Thanks to everyone who volunteers.