Why You’re Asking Your Grandkids to Repeat Themselves
Why You’re Asking Your Grandkids to Repeat Themselves: It Might Be Time for a Check-Up
If “What did you say?” has become your new catchphrase with the grandkids, it might be more than just background noise or mumbling—it could be your hearing.
💡 Key Takeaways
- Needing repetition—especially from children—is a common early sign of hearing loss.
- A professional hearing test is painless, quick, and gives you immediate answers.
- Early detection protects your brain health and keeps you connected to family.
- Modern hearing aids are discreet, high-tech, and much simpler than the ones from decades ago.
Is It Just the Kids Mumbling—or Is It Hearing Loss?
We know kids talk fast. And sure, sometimes they do mumble. But if you find yourself asking them—and other family members—to repeat themselves significantly more than you used to, your ears might be the real culprit.
| Situation | Probably Normal | Might Be Hearing Loss |
|---|---|---|
| Talking to grandkids | An occasional “What?” when they are shouting from another room. | Missing words even when they are standing right in front of you. |
| Watching TV | Turning the volume up for quiet movies now and then. | Family members complaining the TV is "blasting" most evenings. |
| Family dinners | Struggling to hear when everyone talks at once. | Struggling to follow one person even when the room is relatively quiet. |
| Phone calls | Occasional static or bad reception. | Voices sounding muffled, distant, or unclear on almost every call. |
If the right-hand column feels a little too familiar, it’s a good time to read up on hearing tests in Maryland.
Why Children’s Voices Are Often the First to “Disappear”
1. High-Pitched Sounds Fade First
Age-related hearing loss doesn't happen all at once. It often starts with high-pitched frequencies. This is exactly where children’s voices live—along with crucial consonants like “s,” “f,” and “t.” Without these sounds, speech feels fuzzy.
2. Your Brain Is Working Overtime
When your ears miss parts of a word, your brain works double-time to “fill in the blanks.” This explains why you might feel exhausted after a family gathering or why you get headaches in the afternoon.
Signs It’s Time for a Quick Check-Up
Hearing loss creeps up slowly, so we often don't notice it until someone else points it out. Ask yourself:
- Do you ask your grandkids or family to repeat themselves daily?
- Do you hear that people are talking, but can't quite make out what they are saying?
- Does the TV volume keep creeping higher?
- Do you avoid answering the phone because it's stressful to hear?
- Do restaurants feel overwhelming to the point where you stop talking?
If you nodded along to these, you aren't alone. And more importantly—you aren't "bothering" anyone by getting tested. Start with a simple appointment.
What Actually Happens at a Hearing Test?
Many people put off testing because they worry it will be complicated or embarrassing. The reality? It’s easier than an eye exam.
1. The Conversation
We just talk. You tell us where you struggle—like hearing the doorbell or chatting with your granddaughter. Check out these common questions seniors ask us.
2. The Test
You’ll sit in a comfortable, sound-treated booth and listen to some tones and speech. It is completely painless and non-invasive.
3. The Results
We review your results immediately. We'll explain your "audiogram" in plain English so you know exactly what sounds you are missing.
4. The Options
If (and only if) you need help, we can look at devices from top brands like Oticon, Phonak, and ReSound.
Worried About Cost? You Have Options
Insurance & Benefits
You might be surprised by what your plan covers. Some help with testing, devices, or follow-ups. Our team can check your benefits for you. Start with our Cost & Funding Guide.
Local Care Offers
We often have promotions to help reduce costs. See our current offers and consider visiting a nearby office like our Annapolis clinic.
Next Steps: Turn “What?” Into “Tell Me More”
Asking your grandkids to repeat themselves isn’t something to feel guilty about—but it is something you can change. A simple hearing test can help you catch conversations, jokes, and “I love yous” the first time around.
