The discreet device that’s ‘saving’ relationships — and it’s not a sex toy

‘The most exciting innovation in couples’ connection and intimacy. Small, but oh so powerful… The moment you turn it on, you’ll feel closer than ever.’

These words are describing a sleek, discreet device, but perhaps not the one you might expect.

It’s taken from a new advert that at first looks like it could be for a sex toy – but the ‘game-changing and ‘relationship-saviing’ gadget it features has a very different use. 

It’s a Specsavers hearing aid which has been reimagined as ‘the ultimate relationship‑saving gadget’. 

New research, by Specsavers, revealed that over two-thirds of British couples (67%) believe being ‘listened to and truly heard’ by their partner is the most important way to stay connected, but up to 18 million people in the UK struggle to hear properly, according to NHS England data.

Nearly half of the couples Specsavers spoke to said they or their partner struggles with hearing, but only 17% currently wear a hearing device.

Symptoms of hearing loss often emerge when someone is in their mid to late 40s, but an estimated 45% of people are not actively receiving care from hearing experts.

Specsavers claims that delays in treatment can heighten relationship challenges, leaving partners feeling disconnected from one another, with one in four people admitting that regularly having to repeat themselves is a cause of tension.

But amongst couples where a hearing aid is used, 32% reported ‘improved physical connection and intimacy’.

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Celebrity relationship expert, Paul C Brunson, has teamed up with Specsavers for the hearing campaign. He said: ‘If you can’t hear your partner clearly, you can’t truly connect with them. Intimacy and connection aren’t built on grand gestures and lavish gifts – they’re built on being heard in the everyday moments. When those exchanges are missed or misunderstood, emotional and physical closeness fades. 

‘Communication is at the heart of every type of connection in a relationship; naturally, this begins with being able to truly hear your partner. So, getting a hearing check this Valentine’s could be one of the most romantic gestures you could do.’

Dr Zoe Williams, GP, adds: ‘Hearing loss quietly affects wellbeing and relationships long before people seek help. The good news is you don’t need to see your GP first.  

‘Hearing experts are easily accessible on the high street who can assess any changes and offer the right support there and then. Taking that step sooner can make a real difference to everyday connection and quality of life.’

Think you may be struggling with your hearing? To book in for a free hearing check visit: specsavers.co.uk/hearing/relationships.  

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