Caregiver Resources
Essential tools and guidance for family members supporting someone with hearing loss
Being a caregiver is both rewarding and challenging.
Whether you're helping a spouse, parent, child, or other family member navigate hearing loss, these resources will help you provide effective support while taking care of yourself.
Who are you supporting?
Choose your relationship to get personalized guidance:
Supporting Your Spouse/Partner
Communication Strategies
- Face your partner when speaking
- Get their attention before talking
- Speak clearly without exaggerating
- Be patient with repetition requests
- Include them in group conversations
Maintaining Intimacy
- Keep romantic communication flowing
- Find quiet places for important talks
- Use touch and visual cues
- Plan hearing-friendly date activities
- Support their independence
Supporting Your Parent
Respectful Advocacy
- Approach concerns with sensitivity
- Respect their autonomy and choices
- Offer to attend appointments together
- Help research options without pressure
- Support their decision-making process
Practical Assistance
- Help with technology setup
- Assist with insurance navigation
- Provide transportation to appointments
- Help modify their home environment
- Connect them with support resources
Supporting Your Child
Educational Support
- Advocate for school accommodations
- Communicate with teachers regularly
- Support homework and learning at home
- Encourage self-advocacy skills
- Connect with other families
Social & Emotional
- Build their confidence and self-esteem
- Help them explain their needs to friends
- Encourage participation in activities
- Address bullying or social challenges
- Celebrate their achievements
Universal Caregiver Strategies
Communication Fundamentals
- Face the person when speaking
- Ensure good lighting on your face
- Reduce background noise
- Use gestures and visual cues
- Write things down when needed
Self-Care for Caregivers
- Take breaks from caregiving duties
- Seek support from other caregivers
- Maintain your own social connections
- Set realistic expectations
- Ask for help when you need it
Essential Resources
Quick access to the most helpful tools and information for caregivers.
Communication Guide
Detailed strategies for effective communication in different situations.
Learn Communication Tips →School Support
Help your child get educational accommodations and support at school.
School Accommodations →Understanding Hearing Loss
Learn about hearing loss to better understand your loved one's experience.
Learn More →Stay Connected with UCSF EARS
Ready to take the next step? We're here to support you every step of your hearing health journey.
Need Immediate Help?
Sudden hearing loss, severe pain, or trauma requires urgent medical attention.
Emergency Symptoms Guide →Find Your Best Care Path
Should you see ENT or Audiology? Our 2-minute screener helps you choose the right specialist.
Take Quick ScreenerConnect with UCSF Providers
Already a UCSF patient? Send secure messages and manage your hearing care through MyChart.
Open MyChartSpeak with Our Team
Questions about hearing loss, treatment options, or scheduling? Our specialists are here to help.
(415) 353-2464Our Promise: Whether you're just starting to learn about hearing health or ready for specialized care, UCSF EARS is with you every step of the way.