Do you know someone with a hearing loss? If you have to repeat yourself, speak loudly, or write words on paper to communicate with someone, what do you think happens when your loved one goes to see their Dr.? You know it takes more time to communicate. The same thing happens at the Drs. office.

When the Dr.'s office is full of patients, taking the necessary time to communicate with someone with a hearing loss, can be very frustrating to staff. No matter how well organized, or intentioned a receptionist or nurse may be, they can easily lose their patience and become frustrated. This frustration can be transferred to the patient, and quality of care and service can be affected. This is a reality.

Questions from Drs. can easily be misconstrued, and the individual might think they're answering appropriately, when in fact, they're not. This is critical when medications, or upcoming tests and procedures are being discussed.

For example, what if the Dr. asks if they have any allergies? If the person says "No" and they are allergic to say, penicillin, serious consequences can arise if the drug is taken.

Hearing loss and any form of memory impairment can be a doubly lethal combination.

If you know someone who is elderly and has a hearing loss, it is important that they have someone with them when they visit their Dr. This person should be a trusted individual, and know them well.