The vast majority of Brits are convinced their partner has ‘selective hearing’, according to new research.
The study revealed that seven in ten Brits believe their other half often conveniently ‘doesn’t hear’ what is said, and men are ‘worse’ than women.
During the course of a typical week, men ‘won’t hear’ what their partner is saying on seven occasions – 388 times a year in total.
In comparison, women will opt not to listen just six times a week or 339 times a year.
However more than half of adults admitted they are concerned their partner’s ‘selective hearing’ could be a result of genuine hearing difficulties, as discovered by research commissioned by Scrivens Hearing Care to mark Hearing Awareness Month.
Around four in 10 even went as far as to say they ‘know with certainty’ their other half struggles to hear.
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Scrivens senior hearing aid audiologist, Kirran Saimbi, said: “Most of us will have experienced ‘selective hearing’ – either being the accused or the accuser.
“But joking aside, ‘selective hearing’ could be a sign of hearing loss.
“Left ignored, hearing loss can lead to isolation, depression and there is evidence of a link with dementia.
“The changes in our hearing are often so subtle and happen over time, that it can be very hard for us to notice the impact it’s having on our lives and those around us.
“That’s why regular hearing checks are so important.”
Worryingly, a third of the 2,000 adults polled said their partner has appeared to be trying to read their lips because they can’t make out what is being said – a common sign of hearing difficulties.
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Similarly, 47 per cent admitted their other half has a tendency to mumble – another indicator of possible hearing problems.
Difficulty hearing consonants is also a symptom of hearing difficulties, with more than a quarter saying their partner has demonstrated signs of this.
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A third revealed their beloved frequently has to resort to asking others to speak more slowly, clearly and loudly.While it also emerged four in 10 said their significant other gets frustrated during social gatherings because they struggle to make out what is being said.
“The earlier we can seek help for hearing loss the better,” added Kirran.
“Whether or not we suspect our hearing isn’t as good as it used to be, regular hearing checks are a good way of monitoring our ear health.”
