When we think of loneliness, we might think of someone who lives alone. Whilst it's certainly true that a socially isolated person may also feel lonely, loneliness can actually affect anyone. It's not simply about physically being alone. It is the feeling of of disconnection from conversations and human connectedness - and this can be just as isolating. It’s worth discussing one often-overlooked major contributor: hearing loss.

Hearing Loss is More Than Just a Problem With Volume

People often think that hearing loss simply makes sounds quieter, but more commonly, it reduces clarity. When clarity is lost, conversations can become harder to follow. Group situations or social events which are intended to be fun, actually end up becoming exhausting.

A common analogy that we use is with vision. Imagine you're reading a book and somebody comes and dims the lights. Perhaps you can still continue to read with the dimmed lighting, but it is going to be significantly harder as your eyes strain to see the letters clearly, and by the end of it you will feel much more tired.

The Hidden Social Impact of Hearing Loss

In these situations where hearing becomes more difficult and requires greater effort, people often resort to strategies such as smiling and nodding, or pretending to understand where they actually haven't. On the inside, they may be feeling embarrassed or worried about responding incorrectly or inappropriately. Due to this, many people gradually begin avoiding social situations altogether.

When Avoiding Conversations Becomes a Habit

The habitual avoidance of social situations might look like:

• Always declining dinner invitations

• Avoiding restaurants or cafes

• Staying quiet and reserved at family gatherings

• Losing confidence

• Withdrawing from hobbies or clubs that were once enjoyed

Although we might be able to sometimes get our loved ones out and physically present at social situations, it can be deeper - one can still be lonely, even when physically surrounded by others.

"Loneliness is different than isolation and solitude. Loneliness is a subjective feeling where the connections we need are greater than the connections we have. In the gap, we experience loneliness. It's distinct from the objective state of isolation, which is determined by the number of people around you." - Dr. Vivek Murthy

Why Does This Matter?

Social connection is crucial for our overall wellbeing. Think about the importance that our relationships, self-confidence, mental wellbeing, independence, and overall quality of life have on our overall general wellbeing.

Can Hearing Treatment Help?

Hearing aids are certainly one, very effective option. However, there are other strategies that can be equally helpful alone or in combination depending on the needs of the individual. Consider things such as optimising communication strategies or family education on hearing loss. Perhaps hearing aids are already in the picture but they require optimisation, or to be complemented by one of the aforementioned strategies to really get the most out of them.

Improving hearing can make conversations easier, which then may help people feel more confident participating socially.

A Conversation Worth Having

If you are affected by loneliness, or you have concerns for a family member or loved one - perhaps a starting point is to have a conversation with your partner or family.

If there are any signs of hearing loss or hearing has never been assessed before, book a hearing assessment.

It's very important that we do not dismiss hearing difficulties as "just getting older". There is help available.

Take Home Message

Loneliness isn't always about being physically alone. Sometimes it begins with missing parts of a conversations, withdrawing from social situations, and gradually feeling disconnected from the people around you. Looking after your hearing is about more than just hearing sounds. It's about staying connected with the people and moments that matter most.

About the Author

Daniel Gerace is the Clinical Audiologist and Owner of Solo Audiology and Hearing. He has also co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in the International Journal of Audiology exploring the psychosocial aspects of hearing loss and its impact on people's lives.

Written by Daniel Gerace, Clinical Audiologist and Owner of Solo Audiology and Hearing.