Publisher's Synopsis
This is a updated version of this book. Some references have been removed and replaced by personal experiences and information. The heart of this book remains and it is a longer version. The work I have compiled in this book was inspired by a question from my hygienist. "Linnaea, my husband and I have noticed that we are losing some of our hearing as we grow older. Any tips for us?" I shared with her some of what I discuss in this book:
The three biggest myths associated with hearing loss; Three things she can ask of individuals to help her be part of the conversation; The dynamics of hearing that everyone uses and can be capitalized on when it comes to hearing loss; and Some of the benefits and dangers of having a hearing loss.
I could tell by her response that what I shared was helpful. I knew if she fully embraced and would practice what I gave her, she and her husband could go on living full, active and satisfying lives despite their diminishing hearing.
I share not from an academic "schooled" point of view, although I draw upon many such resources, but as a person who has struggled with this physical disability since early childhood. My sharing is honest - personal - from the gut; no-holds-barred. It has to be that way to be truly helpful.
Why?
Because the biggest challenge in my life was not the inability to hear well but the unwillingness to recognize the severity of the loss and, therefore, not seek the type of information and help that you'll find in this book. Had I had this information 40 years ago, my life would have been very different.
