Happy memories of a cherished pet is a common experience for many people. Cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, and a wide array of other animals can enhance our lives, and even, in some situations, become close companions. Quality of life and symptom management for individuals who have hearing loss can also be improved by having a pet buddy.
In some cases, pets convey these benefits because they have been specifically trained to do so. Particular tasks or specific types of help can be performed by these animals which are trained to provide help to people with hearing loss. Sometimes, though, that isn’t the case. Companionship and comfort can come from animals with no special training. That’s why, in many instances, people with hearing loss and their animal companions develop a special and unique bond.
Is having a pet good for mental health?
With hearing loss, it can be difficult to hear and understand what people are saying, which can feel really isolating. This gap in communication can cause the person with hearing loss to seclude themselves.
So, is having a pet helpful for individuals with hearing loss? It sure is! A dog, cat, or other companionable animal can communicate in a wide variety of non-verbal ways. Clear communication with animals is possible without needing to hear verbal language. When someone has hearing loss, it can be a really lonely time, and being able to connect with an animal friend can offer emotional support and comfort.
Obviously, this doesn’t replace contact between humans. But when making human connections is difficult, it can offer some comfort and support. Pets can also help you discover opportunities to connect with other people. Even if you aren’t necessarily talking with people or making new friends, doing things like taking your dog for a walk in the park can give you the chance to be around others.
Pets can be ideal helpers
Service dogs, as an example, utilize specialized training to assist their humans navigate the world more safely. Primarily, that means these service animals are trained to pay attention to sounds that those with hearing loss may otherwise miss.
Some of the things a service dog for people with hearing loss is trained to do include the following:
- Detecting a knock at the door or a doorbell ringing.
- Detecting the sound of oncoming traffic or other dangers.
- Letting their human know that the smoke detector is sounding.
- Alerting their human to everyday sounds including a ringing phone, alarm clock, or a screeching teakettle.
- Service dogs can even be trained to distinguish their human’s name, and when that human is being spoken to. Individuals who have hearing loss will have an easier time communicating with others as a result.
Detecting these sounds and alerting their human to them is something these animals are especially trained to do. But other non-service animals can also be helpful to somebody with hearing loss. Even a non-trained dog can start barking when the doorbell rings. Similarly, cats or other animals can be very sensitive to abrupt noises or changes, and people who are aware and dialed in with their pets might be able to pick up on these things, as well.
A symbiotic relationship
Many of the benefits that a pet can bring to your life may not even be noticed. They will instantly add a degree of structure to your daily life. They must get fed, walked, and given affection on a regular basis, for instance. This structure can be an essential source of comfort. It’s part of the reason why all types of animal-assisted therapy types exist.
But if you’re thinking about getting a pet or service animal, it’s essential to give it some thoughtful consideration. You will need to be able to properly care for the animal you select and you will want one that will meet your requirements.
It’s also important to mention that service animals cannot replace a pair of hearing aids, both in terms of the long-term benefits and in terms of their capabilities. However, pets can be a major part of your life and provide a trusty companion. They can be a unique and valuable part of their life.
Call us today for an assessment and begin moving toward better hearing!